London exhibition showcases Victor Hugo's illustration talent

A new exhibition in London highlights the lesser-known talent of Victor Hugo as an illustrator. The show, titled "Astonishing Things: The Drawings of Victor Hugo," opened on March 21, 2025, at the Royal Academy of Arts. Hugo is well-known for his classic novels like "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame" and "Les Miserables," but his illustrations are less familiar to many. The exhibition features around 70 of Hugo’s drawings, created mostly between 1850 and 1870. This period coincides with his exile on the island of Guernsey after a political upheaval in France. During this time, he produced some of his most significant literary works, alongside his artistic creations. The drawings include visions of imaginary castles, monsters, and landscapes, reflecting his poetic style. Hugo typically shared his drawings only with close friends. However, he ensured their preservation by donating them to the national library in France. Many of these works have rarely been displayed to the public, with the last showing in the UK more than 50 years ago. The exhibition explores the connection between Hugo’s artistic pursuits and his literary themes. While some drawings, like "Mushroom," are more mysterious, others, such as "Ecce Lex," convey Hugo's political views. The exhibit is set to run until June 29, 2025.