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Burghley House – Artemisia Gentileschi VR Experience 

This summer at Burghley House step back in time to 17th century Italy and experience the fascinating story of internationally celebrated artist Artemisia Gentileschi. Through a virtual reality experience, visitors can immerse themselves in the extraordinary story of Artemisia, whose painting Susanna and the Elders is one of the jewels in the crown of the Burghley art collection.

In the virtual reality experience, an unprecedented collection of Artemisia’s work is gathered into a single experience, where each viewer can admire the work in their own immersive world. One special piece which features in the experience is Burghley House’s very own Artemisia Gentileschi painting Susanna and the Elders. Purchased by the ninth Earl of Exeter whilst in Rome, the 400-year-old painting is Artemisia’s earliestknown work. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to view the historic painting which will be on display in the House for the duration of the exhibition. The painting is not normally on public display at Burghley, so it is a unique chance to view this extraordinary piece of art.

Narrated by musician and author, Cerys Matthews, “The Light in the Shadow” is experienced through virtual reality headsets and explores the fascinating story of one of today’s most celebrated Baroque artists. The 14-minute experience follows Artemisia’s journey as she navigates a world where women have virtually no rights to become one of Europe’s most accomplished and in-demand painters of her time who continues to capture imaginations today. “The Light in the Shadow” has been created by UK based fi lm and immersive production companies, Fat Red Bird (run by Gaëlle Mourre) and Monkey Frame (run by Quentin Darras) and co-produced by award-winning British writer, director, and producer Charlotte Mikkelborg. It is the latest episode in a (Hi)Story of a Painting series co-created by artist and fi lmmakers Gaëlle Mourre and Quentin Darras, with each episode focusing on a renowned painter. Aimed at engaging new audiences with art by creating accessible and relatable experiences, the series focuses on the human stories behind some of the world’s most iconic art. The visuals and virtual environment appear in support of the narration, helping to illustrate and anchor the narrator’s story in the viewer’s mind.

“The Light in the Shadow” virtual experience will run at Burghley from Saturday 23rd July to Sunday 31st August 2022 (excluding Fridays). Before or after the VR experience, we encourage visitors to witness Artemisia’s masterpiece and Burghley’s very own, Susannah and the Elders, on display inside Burghley House during these dates. Tickets are available to book online.

Opening Times: Burghley House: 10.30am to 4pm every day except Friday. The Gardens: 10.30am to 5pm every day; The Park: 7am to 8pm unless dusk falls before. www.burghley.co.uk