Musée de Montmartre

Fernande Olivier and Pablo Picasso,

in the intimacy of the Bateau-Lavoir

Curator: Nathalie Bondil and Saskia Ooms

The exhibition "Fernande Olivier and Pablo Picasso" will be presented as part of the Picasso Celebration (1973-2023).

A modern woman, Fernande Olivier (1881-1966) began her career as a professional model. She worked for many artists such as Cormon, Manolo, Canals, Sunyer... before becoming better known as the companion of the young Picasso. Fernande had much to say about herself through her writings: "Souvenirs intimes" and "Picasso et ses amis". This personality of the Bateau-Lavoir and of Montmartre life at the beginning of the 20th century is the subject of a first exhibition entirely devoted to her.

The exhibition will illustrate some of the key episodes of the avant-garde, recounted by Fernande through family archives and numerous public and private loans. The point of view adopted is that of Fernande through her writings, correspondence and even her works. She will analyse her writings, the support of Paul Léautaud and the reception of her works. As a modern woman, model, artist and writer, she is an inescapable witness of an era and an artistic milieu.

 

Musée de Montmartre

From 14 October 2022 to 19 February 2023
Image for Fernande Olivier and Pablo Picasso,
Artwork(s) loaned
  • Bust of a woman

    Pablo Ruiz Picasso (1881—1973)

    Bust of a woman 23 May 1903
    Pen and ink on paper
    Musée d'Orsay, Paris 2018-2019 « Picasso Bleu et Rose »
    Royal Academy of Art, London 2020 « Picasso & Paper »
  • Mother and child

    Pablo Ruiz Picasso (1881—1973)

    Mother and child 1903
    Ink on paper
    Marina Picasso Collection
  • Study for Gertrude Stein Portrait

    Tal Coat (1905—1985)

    Study for Gertrude Stein Portrait 1934
    Pencil on paper
    Musée National d'Art Moderne Centre Pompidou Grand Palais 1976 « Tal-Coat »