This winter, you are invited to step into the nativity scene created by sixteenth-century Flemish artist Jan Gossaert in impressive 4D, through soundscapes, spoken word and hi-resolution digital imagery. Designed and produced by the National Gallery in London, the innovative and ground-breaking exhibition will be installed in the historic and atmospheric setting of the Spanish Barn. This is the only venue in the southwest that the exhibition is currently visiting.

The exhibition is a multisensory experience, transporting you into the world of Jan Gossaert’s ‘Adoration of the Kings’. The 3D perfect facsimile of the painting (produced by Factum Arte) showcases the depth of the paint, the vivid colours and exquisite details of this sixteenth-century masterpiece. It is complemented by a soundscape, the squawking of birds, the chink of the bridles and the voice of King Balthasar.

Using digital technology, you can experience one of the National Gallery’s most popular paintings like never before. The exhibition space will comprise of the full-scale facsimile painting, flanked by three yurt-like pods. Inside each pod, you will encounter a digital image of the painting, which has been ‘sonified’ using soundscapes, spoken words, music and a poem. As you step into the experience you can discover and navigate previously unseen elements.

Timed ticket slots are available every 20 minutes (within opening hours) but are limited due to the exhibition comprising of only 3 pods, so please book as far in advance as possible to secure your preferred time/date. 

Exhibition organised by the National Gallery, London

Imagine standing in the middle of a Christmas card scene.” 
Rachel Campbell-Johnston, The Times

A sonic blast that captures the spine-tingling awe of Christmas
Alistair Sooke, The Telegraph

This is a new way of looking at painting, and a new way of making exhibitions… The result is a joy, whether you’re 12, 24, 42 or 107…. It’s the coolest thing.  I can’t wait to see which masterpiece is next. 
Nancy Durant, Evening Standard

A Christmas miracle!
Time Out  

Timed slots are included in the ticket entry price for the main abbey, or £4.50 for 1196 members.

Please note, we will be closed from 24 to 27 December inclusive and 1 and 2 January inclusive. We will return to normal opening times from January 3.

Image credit: Jan Gossaert (Jean Gossart), active 1508 - died 1552, The Adoration of the Kings, 1510-15 © The National Gallery, London