The Dance of Albion (Glad Day) c. 1803 - 1810

William Blake created this print, "The Dance of Albion (Glad Day)," around 1780. It reflects the artist's unique mythology and his critical view of 18th-century British society. At the center, a nude figure stands with arms outstretched, bathed in light. This is Albion, the ancient personification of Britain, emerging from darkness, symbolized by the bat and serpent at his feet. Blake’s Albion isn’t just a symbol of national identity; he embodies the potential for human liberation and spiritual awakening. The figure's nakedness is an assertion of innocence and freedom. Blake lived during a time of immense social upheaval, including the American and French Revolutions. His art was profoundly shaped by his radical political and religious beliefs. Blake challenges traditional, often oppressive, societal structures, championing individual expression and spiritual freedom. Consider the emotional intensity in this piece. It’s an invitation to envision a world transformed by imagination and radical change.