Relationships between artists and their work are always fascinating to me. A lot has been written about the collaboration between Vincent Van Gogh and Paul Gauguin or Luis Bunuel and Salvador Dali. I find these interactions interesting from both the historical and personal point of view.
One of such collaborations is explored at the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C. at "Degas/Cassatt." On display until October 2014, this exhibition expands several rooms and provides a nice overview of Edgar Degas' and Mary Cassatt's work as independent artists but highlights how these two painters influenced each other. The exhibition has a lot of works I have never seen and the accompanying booklet and work descriptions focus on the lesser known aspects of this fruitful relationship.
For instance, I quite enjoyed Degas' affinity for fan designs and his respect for Cassatt's works of which he collected over a hundred pieces. Cassatt was drawn to Degas demeanor and insight into the craft.
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Their printmaking cooperation is well-documented and the prints are an intimate insights into what both artists enjoyed: the leisurely portrayal of life and the techniques in which this portrayal could be achieved.
"Degas/Cassatt" is a lovely overview and if you are in the area, check it out.
Their printmaking cooperation is well-documented and the prints are an intimate insights into what both artists enjoyed: the leisurely portrayal of life and the techniques in which this portrayal could be achieved.
"Degas/Cassatt" is a lovely overview and if you are in the area, check it out.