‘Modern Masterpieces: Paintings from Barber Institute of Fine Arts’ ends on Sunday 1 November 2026.
The exhibition’s dates are Wednesday 12 November 2025 to Sunday 1 November 2026.
The display comprises six paintings by major modern artists, forming an intimate presentation of exceptional works that includes paintings by Vincent van Gogh, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Édouard Vuillard and Pierre Bonnard. The four named artists are among the major modern artists represented in the display.
The works are on loan from the Barber Institute of Fine Arts at the University of Birmingham.
The exhibition is being presented while the Barber Institute undergoes major redevelopment. In that setting, it offers an opportunity to get up close to treasures usually seen in Birmingham. The opportunity concerns works that are usually displayed in Birmingham while the institute’s redevelopment is taking place.
The exhibition’s examples include a family gathered for dinner, a man lost in thought with his cigarette, and someone concentrating while digging heavy earth. Each canvas offers a glimpse into the emotional and physical lives of people across time and place.
