Toulouse Lautrec

Toulouse Lautrec He was born in Albi, France on Nov 24, He was born to a wealthy aristocratic family who’s family tree dated back 1000 years. His Father and Mother were 1st Cousins. In his early teens he broke both legs in separate events. Due to genetic problems (probably due to inbreeding) his bones did not heal properly and he only reached a height of 4’.9”. His torso was proportional but his legs were short.

Toulouse Lautrec His parents at first were supportive of his artwork and hired private tutors to help improve his ability. Later he moved to Paris were he studied art. While he studied art, he became friends with Vincent Van Gogh. At age 19 he was already established as an artist. It was in Paris where his bohemian life style mixed with drinking would eventually take it’s toll on Lautrec life and family relationship.

Toulouse Lautrec Lautrec developed a fast sketchy style that enabled him to capture movement quickly. “his works have greatly influenced even the modern-day perception of turn-of-the-century Paris. “ ml Toulouse’s artwork showed a disregard for the “rules of art” an as a result the avant-garde crowd of Paris loved his work. The two things that influenced Lautrec’s work were Japanese are work and Edgar Degas.

Toulouse Lautrec Toulouse’s work was not always appropriate subject matter. Much of his paintings deal with the Moulin Rouge and the brothels of Paris. He was also known for his posters of the various night clubs and dancers at those clubs. His favorite subject to draw or paint was Jane Arvil a cabaret dancer. Due to his physical deformity he would drink heavily and would party continuously. Part of his dive in to alcoholism was the constant ridicule he endured about his stature and awkward appearance from family and other.

Toulouse Lautrec In 1893 his mother and some friends had Lautrec committed to help him with his drinking. It was also believed he had syphilis. However, it was too little too late. He had a massive stroke while on vacation and died a few days later at his mother house. Toulouse died on Sept. 9, He was only 36 years old.

Toulouse Lautrec Lautrec left behind tremendous amount of work. He was a very prolific artist. When his family cleared out his studio they found many of the 737 canvases he painted, 275 watercolors, 369 prints and posters, 4784 drawings, and about 300 unmentionable works he had done in his brief life.

Toulouse Lautrec