The West Country is set to be treated to a unique exhibition showcasing the often-overlooked printmaking prowess of some of the most celebrated artists in history. 'Beyond Impressionism: Printmaking from Manet to Picasso' is a captivating exploration of the artistic medium that will be on display at the Holburne Museum in Bath from May 23rd to September 13th. This exhibition delves into the lesser-known yet incredibly influential printmaking skills of artists like Édouard Manet, Vincent van Gogh, and Paul Gauguin, who are renowned for their oil paintings.
The show aims to highlight a fascinating historical moment in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when these artists, primarily known for their paintings, played a pivotal role in the revival of printmaking. This medium had fallen out of favor by the mid-19th century, but these artists elevated its status, transforming it into a form of artistic expression in its own right. Chris Stephens, the director of the Holburne Museum, expresses his enthusiasm for the exhibition, emphasizing the often-forgotten connection between these renowned painters and their impact on printmaking.
The exhibition's publicity material features Manet's lithograph of Berthe Morisot, a key member of the Société des Aquafortistes, founded in Paris in 1862 to promote etching as a respected medium. This collaborative nature of printmaking encouraged the exchange of ideas among artists, who also drew inspiration from the great Japanese printmakers. The exhibition showcases a diverse range of prints, including woodcuts, lithographs, and etchings, created by these artists from the 1850s to the 1930s.
One of the highlights is James McNeill Whistler's etchings of the Thames in London and Venice, which Stephens finds particularly intriguing. He notes the unique shading techniques in Whistler's etchings, which create a similar effect to the blue, moody, and misty atmospheres in his paintings. Visitors will also be able to view Van Gogh's 'Gardener By an Apple Tree,' a poignant scene he sketched during his time at a retirement home.
The exhibition further explores how advances in lithographic printing enabled the production of large, colorful prints, such as those by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, which celebrated Parisian nightlife. Pablo Picasso's works, including 'The Frugal Meal' and his minotaur etchings from the 1930s, are also on display, showcasing his full embrace of the medium and his boundary-pushing approach. Stephens praises the exhibition's ability to bring together the works of these diverse artists, creating a comprehensive overview of the revival of etching and printmaking.
'Beyond Impressionism' promises to be a thought-provoking and visually stunning experience, offering a fresh perspective on the artistic contributions of these masters. It serves as a reminder that the world of art is multifaceted, and even the most familiar artists can reveal surprising depths when viewed through a different lens. The exhibition is a must-see for art enthusiasts and anyone curious about the lesser-known artistic endeavors of these iconic figures.
