Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec
========================
Full Name and Common Aliases
Henri Marie Raymond de Toulouse-Lautrec was born on November 24, 1864, in Albi, France. He is commonly referred to as Toulouse-Lautrec or simply Lautrec.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: November 24, 1864
Died: September 9, 1901 (aged 36)
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: French
Profession:
Painter
Printmaker
Lithographer
Draftsman
Illustrator
Photographer
Early Life and Background
Toulouse-Lautrec was born into a noble family, the Counts of Toulouse. His parents, Alphonse de Toulouse-Lautrec and Adèle Tapié de Celeydan, were both from aristocratic families. Due to his family's history of genetic disorders, Henri suffered from poor health throughout his life. He had brittle bones, which made it difficult for him to walk or engage in physical activities.
Toulouse-Lautrec's early life was marked by a fascination with art and drawing. At the age of 14, he began taking lessons with René Tailhade, a local artist. This exposure sparked his passion for painting and printmaking. In 1881, Toulouse-Lautrec moved to Paris to further develop his artistic skills.
Major Accomplishments
Toulouse-Lautrec's art career spanned over two decades, during which he made significant contributions to various mediums:
Printmaking: He created numerous prints using the lithograph technique. His most famous works include _Reine de Joie_ (1892) and _La Goulue_ (1891).
Painting: Toulouse-Lautrec's oil paintings are highly regarded for their vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes. _The Dance Hall at the Moulin Rouge_ (1890) is one of his most notable works.
Illustration: He created illustrations for various publications, including theater programs and poster designs.Notable Works or Actions
Some of Toulouse-Lautrec's most famous works include:
_Reine de Joie_
_La Goulue_
_The Dance Hall at the Moulin Rouge_ (1890)
* _Seated Woman with Hand on Chin_ (1888)
Toulouse-Lautrec was also known for his portraits of Parisian nightlife, including dancers, singers, and prostitutes. His work not only captured the essence of this era but also humanized those often overlooked by society.
Impact and Legacy
Toulouse-Lautrec's art had a significant impact on the development of Post-Impressionism. He influenced artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin. Toulouse-Lautrec's work continues to inspire contemporary artists, designers, and photographers.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec is widely remembered for his unique style, which blended bold colors and expressive brushstrokes with a deep understanding of human emotion. His work not only reflects the essence of Parisian nightlife but also captures the struggles and beauty of those often overlooked by society.
Toulouse-Lautrec's legacy extends beyond his art; he paved the way for future generations of artists to explore new mediums and styles. His contributions to printmaking, painting, and illustration have left an indelible mark on the world of art.
Quotes by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec
Monet’s work would have been even greater if he had not abandoned figure-painting.
Bonnat tells me, ‘Your painting isn’t bad, it is chic, but even so it isn’t bad, but your drawing is absolutely atrocious.’ So I must gather my courage and start once again...
I had placed my stick on the table, as I do every evening. It had been specially made to suit my height, to enable me to walk without too much difficulty. As I was standing up, a customer called to me: ‘Monsieur, don’t forget your pencil.’ It was very unkind, but most funny.
Only the human figure exists; landscape is, and should be, no more than an accessory; the painter exclusively of landscape is nothing but a bore.
In our time there are many artists who do something because it is new; they see their value and their justification in this newness. They are deceiving themselves; novelty is seldom the essential. This has to do with one thing only; making a subject better from its intrinsic nature.
I had placed my stick on the table, as I do every evening. It had been specially made to suit my height, to enable me to walk without too much difficulty. As I was standing up, a customer called to me: 'Monsieur, don't forget your pencil.' It was very unkind, but most funny.
