Winter Masterpiece Exhibition - Pierre Bonnard

It took 2 buses and 2 trains to get there. If you look at my photo in front of the world famous waterfall window that fronts the National Gallery of Victoria it shows my frustration at the travel time.

Was it all worth it? Oh yes, it was worth it.

Pierre Bonnard (1867-1947) was a French painter, illustrator and photographer. Walking around the exhibition shows the range of skill he had in all these disciplines. I loved his painting of Paris streetscapes in the late 1800's.

He painted a series of home life under the lamp, showing what happens under the glow of a pre electricity life.

Bonnard lived for many years in Paris and painted the life there. Being a ballet lover l could not resist this painting.

He also painted a lot of everyday still lives. Notice his use of bright colours. He also used Japanese blockwork techniques in his earlier work.

I was smiling by the time l got out.

Bonnard worked with theatre groups to produce flyers, was an early user of photography, did lithographs and many paintings of animals. He was a life long lover of dogs and many feature in his paintings. The only series l didn't like as much was his landscapes. I don't think they were his best work.

It was an absolute treat to see this exhibition and we are so lucky in Melbourne that our National Gallery of Victoria put on a Winter Masterpiece Exhibition each year. We have seen some wonderful exhibitions over the years. 

I got talking to one of the staff members and she told me more about NGV (National Gallery of Victoria). The exhibition is running until the 8th of October with late opening on Friday Nights until 9pm.  There are 3 levels of Membership if you want to join.

Smiling at the end before the long trek home.

www.ngv.vic.gov.au