Fine Arts Museum of Lyon to feature "Self-Portraits"

PanARMENIAN.Net - The Staatliche Kunsthalle of Karlsruhe, the National Galleries of Scotland in Edinburgh and the Fine Arts Museum of Lyon established a partnership in 2011. The first exhibition to be created within this frame is on the theme of self portraits and it will open in Lyon in spring of 2016. A specific genre in itself, self portraits contain much information about their creators as well as their historical and social environment. At a time when ‘selfie’ photographs have become a true societal phenomenon, one that characterizes the digital era, the study of the traditions and usage of self portraits is more pertinent than it has ever been, Art Daily said.

In Lyon, the exhibition will contain over 230 works from the Renaissance period up to the 21st century, including paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, photographs and videos. It will offer a major chance to study the practice of self portraits by artists in various forms that will be exhibited in five sections – The Artist’s Gaze, In the Studio, Family and Friends, RolePlay and The Artist’s Body. A scientific catalog will be available in English, German and French versions.

Stéphane Paccoud, Lyon: The selection of self-portraits from Lyon consists of mainly ancient and 19th century artworks. The museum of Fine Arts hosts one of the richest collections of 19th century art in France, and many artists from the Lyon school, which was one of the most important at this time, are represented in the exhibition. For instance, the self-portrait chosen for the poster of the exhibition at the Staatliche Kunsthalle in Karlsruhe was painted by Louis Janmot. The artist was Ingres’ pupil, and only 18 years old when he painted this portrait, in 1832. This work has recently been acquired by the museum of Fine Arts, and is a characteristic example of the Lyon school.

Autoportraits will be exhibited in Lyon from March 26th to June 26th 2016, and at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery in Edinburgh from July 16th to October 16th 2016.