From 2nd May to 30th September 2025 Titanic Belfast displays the work of the renowned artist in collaboration with the V&A.
Lucian Freud is one of the 20th Century’s most formidable creatives of his generation. The only Irish location to display his portfolio of etchings, Titanic Belfast does not disappoint with this feature.
This is the first time that some of the etchings have ever been exhibited, and they include collaborations with printer Marc Balakjian. Another highlight is Donegal Man (2007), where the sitter was Titanic Belfast’s Chairman, Pat Doherty.
Titanic Belfast describes the etchings as contemplative and psychologically rich achievements, this journey through Freud’s creativity immerses itself in splendour.
A story of his career, the collection spans Freud’s early work to his later masterful dedication to his unique mantra. Over 60 of his etchings will be shown alongside a recreation of his studio in Kensington.
A diary of extraordinary escapism taking the viewer from the first sitting to the final piece, the sitters are referenced in the anthology of his etchings. They have included Andrew Parker Bowles as The Brigadier and sitter Sally Clarke, owner of Clarke’s Restaurant where Freud dined daily.
Gill Saunders, Curator of the V&A’s Lucian Freud’s Etchings exhibition said: “Made over a period of 25 years, Lucian Freud’s extraordinary etchings demonstrate his developing mastery of this challenging medium. Shown together for the first time, this unique collection of trial proofs offers fascinating insights into Freud’s working process, and shows us how his achievements in print depended on his close collaboration with the master printer Marc Balakjian.”
The exhibition, in collaboration with the V&A, gives visitors the chance to view over 60 of the renowned artist’s famous etchings as well as a new immersive experience created by the world-famous attraction. For further information on Lucian Freud’s Etchings: A Creative Collaboration exhibition go to www.titanicbelfast.com
