Sargent and the Sea offers insight into lesser known works

London weekend getaway

Event: Sargent and the Sea
Date: Until September 26th
Location: Royal Academy of Arts

Sargent and the Sea offers people the chance to see a collectionof lesser-known paintings by John Singer Sargent.

Those on a London weekend getaway could find a visit tothe Royal Academy of Arts the perfect compliment to their capitalcity break.

Particularly intriguing about this collection of paintings isthe fact that they are all seascapes, rather than the more typicalportraits for which the artist is known.

A total of 80 paintings, watercolours and drawings from theAmerican artist will be showcased as part of the exhibit, which isthe first of its kind in the UK.

The subjects of the paintings themselves vary markedly, with theAtlantic, France and the Mediterranean having all been the focus ofhis attention at some point during his extensive travels.

On display are works from earlier years of the Sargent's career,from 1874 to 1880. After this period he largely painted portraitsof the rich and famous.

After enjoying Sargent and the Sea, visitors can retire in styleto the five star Langham, London hotel.