A new exhibition at the Holburne Museum in Bath showcases a captivating juxtaposition of renowned war photographer Sir Don McCullin’s works. Titled “Don McCullin: Broken Beauty,” the exhibition features his striking photographs of ancient Roman sculptures, offering a refreshing perspective on the artist’s extensive career. Opening on 30 January and running until 4 May 2026, this show marks a significant moment for McCullin, who at 90 years old, is preparing for what he describes as his final photographic endeavours.
A Shift in Focus
While McCullin is celebrated for his powerful black-and-white images that capture the rawness of conflict and humanitarian crises, this exhibition delves into a different realm. The pieces on display highlight ancient Roman statues that McCullin has photographed during visits to various museums across the globe. Many of these images are being shown in the UK for the first time, and they are complemented by some of his most iconic works depicting the human cost of war, including scenes from Vietnam, Cyprus, and Northern Ireland.
Reflecting on his extensive career, McCullin stated, “I’m too old to work now. After 60-odd years, I’m slightly tired of it all.” He revealed plans for one last trip to the Vatican to photograph additional sculptures, after which he intends to retire from photography, acknowledging that physical limitations have made it increasingly challenging to continue his craft.
The Genesis of a Passion
McCullin’s fascination with Roman heritage began during a trip to North Africa in the 1970s, alongside the travel writer Bruce Chatwin. Enthralled by the ancient ruins, he later expressed a desire to create a book on Roman cities, which ultimately led to the publication of “Southern Frontiers: A Journey Across The Roman Empire.” This venture marked a departure from his usual themes and allowed him to explore his artistic range.
In recent years, McCullin has frequented museums in Europe and the US, often visiting during off-hours to immerse himself in the sculptures without distraction. His photographs, characterised by dramatic black backgrounds, reinforce the emotional depth of his work. “I think it’s part of my soul, really. There’s a dark side of me because of the war and the tragedy,” he remarked.
A Legacy of Empathy
Chris Stephens, the director of the Holburne Museum, expressed excitement about the exhibition, highlighting the emotional resonance of McCullin’s work. “Around them, we’ve got a constellation of his work representing his key projects,” he stated. “However horrific the subject matter, he’s got this amazing empathy, and draws out the humanity of the people he’s photographing.”
The stark black backgrounds in McCullin’s sculpture photographs are particularly striking and serve to enhance the physical presence of the artworks. Stephens noted that these backgrounds evoke a sense of resilience and vulnerability, mirroring the condition of the ruined sculptures themselves—remnants of a civilisation that has endured for millennia yet remains fragile.
A New Chapter
After his anticipated visit to the Vatican, McCullin plans to devote his time to nurturing his garden in Somerset. “I’ve got a wonderful garden here. I grew some dahlias last year and some tomatoes, and I think I’m going to have another go this year and really expand my thrill of growing things,” he shared, signaling a shift from the lens to the soil.
As “Don McCullin: Broken Beauty” opens its doors, art enthusiasts and the public are invited to witness a rare convergence of the photographer’s diverse interests, encapsulating a lifetime of exploration through both war and beauty.
Why it Matters
This exhibition is significant not only for its artistic merit but also for its exploration of the duality of McCullin’s work. It invites viewers to contemplate the intersection of beauty and devastation, urging a reflection on the resilience of both art and humanity. As McCullin prepares to step away from the camera, “Broken Beauty” serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of photography to evoke empathy and challenge perceptions, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the profound narratives captured through the lens.
