Guernsey's Renoir Exhibition

In the art world, few names command as much reverence and admiration as Pierre-Auguste Renoir. His exquisite Impressionist works have graced the walls of renowned museums across the globe. This autumn, the Renoir in Guernsey, 1883 exhibition will be in showcased from 30^th September to the 15^th December 2023 at Candie Gardens in St Peter Port, just a short stroll away from both The Old Government House Hotel & Spa and The Duke of Richmond Hotel. Nestled in the heart of the English Channel, this exhibition will showcase a remarkable collection of Renoir's masterpieces as well as engravings, photographs and documents, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the world of this influential artist.

A frame in Moulin Huet, part of the al-fresco Renoir walk exhibition 

In 1883, Renoir spent five weeks in Guernsey, captivated by light and the serenity of the island. During this time, he painted fifteen works of art, fascinated by the effortlessly blue water as well as the human figure and its integration into the natural environment. The beach and bay of Moulin Huet provided inspiration for Renoir whilst he was on the island, and in 2019, a self-guided walk with exhibition frames was erected to mirror what Renoir would have seen and taken inspiration from.

Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Baigneuse assise sur un rocher, 1883

Renoir's brushwork, characterised by delicate and fluid strokes, lends a sensual and vibrant quality to his subjects. Whether portraying women, children, or men, his figures radiate warmth, sensuality, and joie de vivre. He had an extraordinary ability to convey emotions, personality, and the interplay of light and shadow in his portraits, making each subject come alive on the canvas. Renoir's fascination with the human form, with all its imperfections and grace, remains an enduring hallmark of his timeless and celebrated body of work.

Pierre-August Renoir Rochers de Guernsey avec personnages (plage à Guernsey) 1883

The painting below captures a tranquil cove kissed by the gentle caress of azure waters. Renoir's expert brushwork infuses life into the landscape, with lush vegetation, rugged cliffs, and a pristine beach. The interplay of sunlight and shade creates a captivating dance of colours, evoking a sense of serenity and timelessness. Showcasing Renoir's affinity for nature and his ability to translate its harmonious essence onto the canvas, this painting is a cherished piece in Renoir’s impressionist repertoire.

Renoir’s depictions of Guernsey have been loaned from the National Gallery in London, The Cincinnati Art Museum and a plethora of other institutions globally, as well as from private collections. David Ummels, the founder of Art for Guernsey and the curator of this exhibition has said: “To reunite these masterpieces, painted on Guernsey and gathered here from across the globe is truly monumental.”

The Renoir in Guernsey, 1883 exhibition runs from 30^th September – 15^th December 2023 in Candie Gardens.