A vibrant portrayal of the renowned Thames waterside, created by the trailblazing Parisian artist André Derain, has made its way from Leeds to London.
This artwork, titled ‘Barges on the Thames’, originally shocked Edwardian art lovers when it debuted in 1906. It is now featured in a new exhibition that highlights London’s distinctive impact on artists globally, hosted by Leeds Art Gallery. ‘Barges on the Thames’ by André Derain will be showcased at Sotheby’s London until July 5, after which it will return to Leeds later in the summer. This exhibition, a collaboration with ArtUK, is part of the celebrations marking the 200th anniversary of the National Gallery.
This painting is one of 29 similar scenes by Derain, representing a bold shift from the traditional, foggy, and somber depictions of London by many of his contemporaries. Derain’s vivid use of color had already earned him the nickname ‘Fauve’ or ‘Wild Beast’ from French critics before he was commissioned to reinterpret the popular Thames views, originally painted by Claude Monet, in his distinctive style.
‘Barges on the Thames’ was initially displayed in Paris before being acquired by Leeds Art Gallery in the late 1930s. This acquisition was part of an ambitious initiative by the gallery director Phillip Hendy to enrich the Leeds collection with notable artworks following the war. Recently, experts in Leeds meticulously prepared the remarkable painting for transport to Sotheby’s in London.
There, it is featured in the exhibition ‘London: An Artistic Crossroads’, which includes twelve artworks from the UK’s premier institutions. These pieces showcase the unique inspiration drawn from the artists’ experiences in London.
Jane Bhoyroo, principal keeper of Leeds Art Gallery said:
“Barges on the Thames is one of those rare paintings which immediately draws the eye, and Derain’s brave and uncompromising use of colour is so distinctive. We’ll miss seeing this work at the gallery while it’s on loan, but we’re also very proud that one of our works will be displayed in such prestigious company and that Derain’s vision of London will be part of this important exhibition.”
The painting is a highlight of Leeds Art Gallery’s extensive collection of 19th and 20th century British paintings and sculptures, renowned as one of the finest collections outside of the national museums.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture said:
“It’s testament to the strength and diversity of the Leeds collection that works from the city are displayed as loans alongside artwork from around the world. We’re very proud of our reputation and of the fact that people in Leeds and beyond are able to see these beautiful artworks on display.”
For more information about Leeds Art Gallery and its collection, please visit the Leeds Museums & Galleries website at Leeds Art Gallery: Leeds Museums & Galleries
For details on the ‘London: An Artistic Crossroads’ exhibition, please visit the Sotheby’s page at London: An Artistic Crossroads
