A time capsule letter from John Sainsbury criticizes the addition of false columns by architect Robert Venturi in London’s National Gallery in 1990. The letter, discovered last year, expressed Sainsbury’s regret over accepting the design detail. The Sainsbury family, major donors to the arts, funded the Sainsbury Wing, which is currently being refurbished to include a more open foyer by architect Annabelle Selldorf. Demolition of the false columns has sparked controversy, with the Twentieth Century Society opposing the decision. John Sainsbury’s family remains a significant financial contributor to the upgrade project, set to be completed next year, allowing visitors to assess the architectural choices firsthand.
https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2024/08/27/sainsbury-wing-contractors-find-1990-letter-from-donor-anticipating-their-demolition-of-false-columns