A Painter in Paris: Albert de Belleroche (1864 – 1944)

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The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, Bournemouth, is thrilled to announce the opening of a brand-new exhibition in partnership with Liss-Llewellyn Fine Art, A Painter in Paris: Albert de Belleroche (1864 – 1944), the first major retrospective of artworks by painter and lithographer, Albert de Belleroche. The exhibition runs from Friday 3 May 2024 to Sunday 22 September 2024.

Born in Wales in 1864, Belleroche grew up in France and immersed himself in the vibrant Parisian art scene, forging friendships with luminaries including Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Edgar Degas and Auguste Renoir. He also formed a lifelong friendship with John Singer Sargent, with whom he shared studios throughout his career. Lili Grenier modelled for Belleroche, and also appears in many notable works by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, becoming known as the face of La Belle-Epoque aesthetic. Toulouse-Lautrec and Belleroche even painted portraits of each other.

This rich, new exhibition features over 60 oils and lithographs by Belleroche, many of which have never been on public display. It explores Belleroche’s artistic journey and his relationships with his Impressionist contemporaries, who shaped his distinctive style and contributed to his lasting legacy. The Impressionist movement's emphasis on capturing the fleeting effects of light left an indelible mark on Belleroche's work, infusing it with vibrancy and spontaneity. The exhibition showcases a diverse range of works, from intimate portraits and evocative landscapes, to captivating still lives. Each piece reflects Belleroche's keen observation, technical mastery, and ability to infuse his scenes with emotional depth.

Manager at the Russell-Cotes, Sarah Newman says ‘We are delighted to present this landmark exhibition dedicated to Albert de Belleroche. His work offers a captivating glimpse into the artistic world of Paris during a transformative era. We believe this exhibition will resonate with art enthusiasts and newcomers alike, offering a chance to discover the beauty and emotion within Belleroche's paintings.’

During recent decades, there has been growing interest in the Belle-Epoque, and major research and exhibitions have been devoted to artists associated with the movement. George Kenney’s Catalogue Raissone, Albert de Belleroche, Master of Belle Epoch Lithography (May 2024) illustrates and analyses nearly all of his 960 lithographs. Tate Britain are currently holding an exhibition on Sargent and Fashion until 7 July 2024, and the Musee d’Orsay in Paris are currently running an exhibition on Paris 1874: Inventing Impressionism. However, amongst these, Belleroche’s remarkable story is yet to be truly told. A Painter in Paris: Albert de Belleroche is a unique opportunity to discover the captivating work of this under-recognised artist. Whether you're an art aficionado or simply looking for a captivating cultural experience, this exhibition promises to transport you to another time and place.