Lucian Freud: The Self-portraits

Lucian Freud's self-portraits are visceral, unflinching, and often nude, giving us an insight into the development of his style as a painter. Essays by leading authorities explore Freud's life and work, and analyze the importance of self-portraiture in his practice.

Format: Hardback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 18 October 2019
Publisher: Royal Academy of Arts

Lucian Freud, a renowned artist, challenged his students at the Norwich College of Art in 1964 with an intriguing assignment: to create naked self-portraits that would be both revealing and shameless. This directive was a guiding principle that Freud often followed in his own artistic journey. His self-portraits, characterized by their visceral and unflinching nature, offer a profound insight into the evolution of his style as a painter. These works not only showcase Freud's physical presence but also convey a sense of his overwhelming aura, whether he is directly confronting the viewer or merely depicted as a shadow or reflection.

To delve deeper into Freud's life and work, a collection of essays by esteemed authorities, including those who knew him intimately, has been assembled. These essays explore the significance of self-portraiture in Freud's practice and the intensity with which he approached his own self-study. They shed light on the personal experiences, influences, and artistic motivations that shaped Freud's artistic expression.

Through his self-portraits, Freud invites the viewer to engage with a profound exploration of the human psyche. He challenges societal conventions and taboos by presenting the naked human form in all its vulnerability and complexity. These works serve as a constant reminder of the artist's profound presence, whether he is physically present or merely a figment of the viewer's imagination.

Freud's self-portraits are not merely visual representations; they are emotional and psychological narratives. They reflect the artist's inner struggles, fears, and desires, providing a window into his private world. By studying his own self-portraits, Freud gained a deeper understanding of his own identity and the complexities of the human condition.

In conclusion, Lucian Freud's self-portraits serve as a testament to his artistic brilliance and his unwavering commitment to self-exploration. These works offer a profound insight into the development of his style as a painter and the intensity with which he approached his own artistic journey. Through their visceral and unflinching nature, Freud's self-portraits continue to captivate and inspire audiences, reminding us of the power of art to reveal the depths of the human soul.

Weight: 1002g
Dimension: 286 x 237 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912520060