One painting that really affected me was The Execution of Lady Jane Grey. I wrote about her on my Tower of London blog, and seeing this painting after learning her story was emotional. She was the shortest ruling monarch, only being in power for 9 days as she was kicked out by supporters of Catholic queen Mary and sent to prison, being executed soon after. It is hard to see a young woman who hasn’t done anything wrong get murdered just to appease those with a higher social standing. Women were treated as a symbol rather than as people and while it’s hard to see it was a truth and sometimes still is a truth in human society.
I also really enjoyed seeing Van Goghs Sunflowers. I have seen this painting online so much, so seeing it in real life was very powerful. I love and admire Van Goghs art style and how it shows his perspective of the world. It is inspiring seeing him paint sunflowers and use them as a symbol of hope and happiness even though he was in a dark place himself. It was said they express an “idea symbolizing gratitude”, which really stuck with me. Every little flower is different and unique and it reminds us to be grateful for everything, no matter small.
Overall, our trip to the National Gallery was enjoyable and I’m glad I got to see such important pieces of art history! It was a great way to start off my birthday. I get a lot of value out of absorbing art in different places, as I find it is one of the best ways to connect with different cultures and communities. I really appreciate how accessible art is in London and I hope to be able to see more before I leave.
Theatre in London U of A 
Glad it was such a nice birthday museum trip!
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