A Light in the Dark: Joseph Wright of Derby

Exhibition
Two young boys are in a dark room, lit only by a candle. The boy on the right inflates a pig's bladder.

Two Boys with a Bladder (detail), 1767, Joseph Wright of Derby. Oil on canvas. Getty Museum

The British painter Joseph Wright of Derby is celebrated for his astonishing ability to capture the magic of light piercing the dark. In 1760s London he exhibited a series of remarkable pictures that catapulted the provincial artist to national fame. This exhibition reunites several of these works—including the Getty’s recently rediscovered Two Boys with a Bladder—and explores the technical innovations and artistic ambitions behind some of the most enthralling paintings of the 18th century.

This exhibition is presented in English and Spanish. Esta exposición se muestra en inglés y en español.

Nov 24, 2026–Mar 14, 2027

Getty Center

Museum West Pavilion, Plaza Level

Free

All exhibitions are included in your free, timed-entry reservation to Getty. Reservations are available six weeks in advance. Please note, there is a fee for parking.

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Media Contact: Cole Calhoun

For press inquiries related to this exhibition, please email Cole Calhoun.