Drawing Out the Sound

Representations of Music in Art

How can sound be evoked in a drawing? Can a work of art sing?

Throughout history, artists have been fascinated with depicting music, grappling with the challenge of conjuring sound through a silent and visual medium. In this display, prints and drawings from the 15th to the 20th century allow an insight into how – and why – artists have represented sound in art.

Featuring artists ranging from Dürer to Renoir, this print display brings together works that reflect upon the changing meanings of music in society.