The Bite Magazine - Spring/Summer 2025 - Issue 37

biteexhibition ability to capture the psychological depth of his subjects made him one of the most compelling portraitists of his time. Lucian’s work emerged during a period of significant artistic transformation. The mid-20th century saw the rise of Abstract Expressionism, led by figures like Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko, which dominated the international art scene. Freud, however, remained com- mitted to figurative painting, aligning himself with the School of London, a group of artists including Francis Bacon and Frank Auerbach, who championed the human figure in an era increasingly dominated by abstraction. His paintings and etchings deeply engage with traditional European portraiture, drawing inspiration from Rembrandt, Velázquez, and Ingres. Yet, Freud’s approach was uniquely modern, as his subjects were often depicted with an unflinching realism that exposed their vulnerabilities. His work reject- ed idealisation, instead embracing his sitters’ imperfections and psychological weight, such as his first wife, Kathleen ‘Kitty’ Garman. Titanic Belfast, the world’s authentic visitor experience located where the fa- mous ship was designed and launched, is hosting Lucian Freud’s Etchings: A Creative Collaboration in partnership with the Victoria and Albert Museum until 30 September 2025. This unique showcase delves into Freud’s printmak- ing techniques and his longstanding collaboration with master printer Marc Balakjian, featuring over 60 of his etch- ings, many of which have never been exhibited. The exhibition marks the first stop on a global tour, making Belfast the only location in Ireland to display these re- markable works. It features trial proofs that highlight Freud’s meticulous ap- proach to etching. Among the standout pieces is Donegal Man (2007), one of Freud’s most contemplative works. The sitter for this piece, Pat Doherty, is the Chairman of Titanic Belfast, adding a special connection between the exhibi- tion and its venue. The iconic six-floor building, owned by the Maritime Belfast Trust, which preserves and promotes the capital city’s maritime heritage, hosts the self-guid- Images courtesy of V&A Museum and Grifco PR