I went to the National Gallery today.  Wandered around the Italian, Dutch and English paintings.  A feast for the eyes and much to consider with regard to the influences of the times.  Wonderful depictions of faces, hands, eyes, emotions, relationships, government, power.  Scenes of love, adoration, war, violence through the ages; somehow putting into context the experiences of today.  An exhibition on Work, Rest and Play which certainly puts into perspective today’s experiences of stress at work, realizing how harsh the conditions were for previous generations where there was no help for those in need, no social services, no dole, only starvation.  The pressures have changed and become more psychological than physical but the human condition is and has always been one of challenge and occasional joy. 

Thinking how important it is for today’s children and young people to have the opportunity to visit our art galleries and spend a moment of quiet time (as galleries are always quiet places) in the midst of the noise that is the 21st century (ipods, hi fi, television, Sony game stations etc) visiting the experiences of previous eras and also experiencing that quiet reflection of times gone by, of how artists perceived the human experience of life through the ages, and of the opportunity to put into perspective the experience of today.  May teachers and parents take these moments and share them - the marvellous collections of our art galleries and museums are free of charge for young and old: what an incredible gift to share, and one that can shape our view of life and humanity for a lifetime.