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Poets Inspired by Titian: George Szirtes | Metamorphosis: Titian 2012 | The National Gallery, London

435 views · Published 31 July 2012 · 3:17 · Indexed 22 October 2026

Channel: The National Gallery · 2012 · Travel & Events

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Hear George Szirtes describing his creative process and how he drew inspiration from the artist. Leading contemporary poets have been invited to respond to three of Titian's paintings - 'Diana and Actaeon', 'The Death of Actaeon' and the recently acquired 'Diana and Callisto' - which depict stories from Ovid's epic poem 'Metamorphoses'. 

You can also hear George reading his poem 'Actaeon' in our Poems Inspired by Titian playlist.

A multi-faceted experience celebrating British creativity across the arts, 'Metamorphosis: Titian 2012' brings together a group of specially commissioned works responding to the three Titian paintings.

Featuring new work by contemporary artists Chris Ofili, Conrad Shawcross and Mark Wallinger, including sets and costumes for three new ballets at the Royal Opera House. Leading poets including Seamus Heaney, Wendy Cope, and Patience Agbabi have also responded to Ovid's text and Titian's paintings.

Buy the book -- Metamorphosis: Poems Inspired by Titian: http://www.nationalgallery.co.uk/products/p_1034100

Watch more on our Channel: http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/channel/

Find out more about the exhibition 'Metamorphosis: Titian 2012' on the National Gallery website: http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/metamorphosis

Explore the life and work of Titian, including a special Titian playlist: http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/paintings/learn-about-art/artists/titian/

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