7 March 2026–17 January 2027
From the ideals of antiquity to visions of emancipation and freedom. This spring, the Gothenburg Museum of Art presents a major exhibition dedicated to one of art history’s most enduring and fascinating motifs: the human body. Body. Ideal, Gaze, Freedom brings together around one hundred works that explore and challenge historical ideals, examine the role of the model, and reveal the body’s expressive and creative potential.
The exhibition is a meeting ground for periods, styles, and artistic expressions – from paintings, drawings, sculptures, and prints to photography and video art. It offers a sweeping overview of how bodies have been depicted, interpreted, and controlled throughout art history. Most of the works come from the museum’s own collection, featuring artists such as Hanna Pauli, Francis Bacon, and Charlotte Gyllenhammar.
A richly illustrated catalogue with newly commissioned essays by researchers, artists and writers accompanies the exhibition.
Body. Ideal, Gaze, Freedom
Editor: Eva Nygårds
Authors: Lotta Granqvist, Eva Nygårds, Patrik Steorn och Stina Wollter
Graphic Design: Eric Dahl Palmér
Pages: 157
Hardback, Illustrated
Printed by: Åtta Tryckeri AB, Järfälla
ISBN: 978-91-984602-3-0
Price: 265 SEK