John Singer Sargent in BroadwayJohn Singer Sargent (1856–1925) was one of the most celebrated portrait painters of his time, renowned for his ability to capture both the physical likeness and inner character of his sitters. While much of his career was spent in London, Paris and New York, Broadway played a vital role in his artistic and personal life.In the early 1880s, Sargent found much needed refuge in Broadway, a picturesque Cotswold village that had become a creative hub for American and British artists. He was drawn to the lively artistic circle centred around his friends, the painter Francis (‘Frank’) Millet and his wife Lily, who hosted gatherings at Russell House. The village’s tranquility and the encouragement of fellow artists provided Sargent with a welcome break from the pressures of society portraiture. Here, he was free to experiment with light, colour, and composition.

It was during these summers in Broadway that Sargent painted Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose (1885–86), one of his most celebrated works. This luminous painting, depicting two young girls lighting lanterns at dusk, marked a turning point in his career. The piece was inspired by an evening boating trip with close friend and painter, Edwin Austin Abbey (‘Ned’) and was painstakingly painted en plein air in the garden at Broadway, to capture the moment of fading evening light with absolute precision.

Sargent’s time in Broadway shaped his artistic direction, reinforcing his love for natural light and informal portraiture.

You will rarely have a more intimate experience with incredible examples of the artist’s work. Visitors will really see, up close like never before, the brushstrokes and charcoal marks made by the hand of a master artist. A special look at at the sensitivity and creative genius of an artist who not only displays a mastery of craftsmanship and technical skill, but the unequalled ability to capture the essence of his subject’s character and personality.

This very intimate exhibition brings together rarely seen works and personal objects, offering a unique insight into the artist’s deep connection to this remarkable place.