A painting by the renowned British artist J.M.W. Turner, titled Ulysses Deriding Polyphemus – Homer's Odyssey, is now on display at York Art Gallery as part of a new exhibition. The artwork depicts a scene from Homer's ancient Greek epic, the Odyssey, showing Ulysses—also known as Odysseus—sailing away from the island where he and his men had been trapped by Polyphemus, a one-eyed giant. The painting has been loaned from the National Gallery for this special display. The exhibition, Turner, Wedgwood & Beyond: Inspired by Flaxman, opens on Friday and features over 100 works. It marks the 200th anniversary of the death of John Flaxman, a celebrated artist and sculptor born in York. The exhibition highlights Flaxman’s influence on other artists of his time, including Turner, and explores how his interpretations of Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey inspired others. Flaxman’s work is known for its elegant, classical style and its role in shaping the visual language of ancient myths. Senior curator Dr. Beatrice Bertram explained that while Flaxman may not be widely recognized today, the exhibition seeks to bring his contributions to light. She noted that elements of Flaxman’s original sketches—such as the outlines of horses in the sunset and the shadow of a cyclops—can be seen in Turner’s painting. These pieces are displayed side by side, allowing visitors to draw comparisons and appreciate the artistic dialogue between the two creators. Co-curator Richard Johns from the University of York mentioned that the exhibition was not planned in response to a new Christopher Nolan film based on the Odyssey, but he described the timing as a “happy accident.” The film has sparked renewed interest in Homer’s work, and Johns hopes the exhibition will inspire visitors—especially those who have seen the movie—to explore how 18th and 19th-century artists interpreted the epic. The exhibition will remain open until 17 January 2027.