‘Frame of Mind’

First published by FX Magazine

Within its 326th edition, FX magazine invited architects, and designers to select their favourite artworks from the permanent collections at the Tate and the National Gallery, and asked why each has inspired them.

Istoria Group Chairwoman, Claire Menzies selected ‘Titian’ by Bacchus and Ariadne (dated 1520-3) which hangs in London’s National Gallery.

I first saw this when a friend’s mother took us to the National Gallery in the late 1970s when I was staying with them after temporarily falling out with my family. My father was becoming increasingly evangelical, just as I wanted more freedom – and this painting spoke to that mindset perfectly.

The extraordinary blues of the sea and sky first drew me in, but the story was the hook.

Ariadne has been abandoned by Theseus, but rather than being dejected, she is livid with anger – just what the newly-arrived Bacchus falls for. It’s a brilliant depiction of love at first sight.

Thank you for reading

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