Welcome to the thematic galleries
"Under the good influence and example of my master and mentor, Mathurin Méheut, I compiled sketches that could later serve as a reference for works based on those studies. Done in pencil, ink or gouache, the oldest date from my early days at the École des beaux-arts de Rennes. I continued sketching over the years whenever I had the time and opportunity. Though in the end they were never used for the purpose I originally had in mind, the sketches and gouaches often proved to be a precious memory aid in my work. I hope you will enjoy them as a guide to my memories and the rich and varied experiences of my life."
F.B.
Discover the little-known pictorial world of Frédéric Back through these revolving exhibitions featuring a selection of gouaches, drawings and sketches organized into ten thematic galleries. Never before seen outside of his studio, they reveal as much about the artist as about his subjects. Once you have checked out all the artworks, come back again soon to see what new themes are available, or be your own guide and use the search toolengine to explore our extensive image bank.
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Man and the SeaMagnificent and nourishing, the sea is a subject of fascination to all human beings. There are a thousand ways to discover or live from the sea. I began exploring ... See |
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First NationsThe art, legends and way of life of the First Nations people were intriguing discoveries for me on my arrival in North America. So many cultures obliterated by European ... See |
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Rural LifeFarmers shape the landscape and invent a multitude of tools and methods to work the soil and raise livestock. I really loved being involved in the life ... See |
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Traditional CraftsEvery handcrafted object is the product of craftspeople who have learned age-old skills and invented or improved the necessary tools. I have always ... See |
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ForestsForests are essential to countless plant and animal species and to human beings as well. Forest workers depend on them for the most widely used building ... See |
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AnimalsOf all subjects, they are the most fascinating to study. Each species presents such singular characteristics, such unpredictable silhouettes, proportions ... See |
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AlsaceAfter the war I returned home to my native Alsace and bicycled all over the region, from north to south. I filled my sketchbooks with details ... See |
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BrittanyA land of sea and forests, the Brittany peninsula offers a contrast of gentle meadows enclosed in hedges and jagged shorelines battered by tireless waves ... See |
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Western CanadaOn the train trip across Canada from Montreal to Prince Rupert on the Pacific coast in 1949, my young bride, Ghylaine, and I found many reasons to stop ... See |
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QuebecIn July 1948, inspired by my childhood reading, the paintings of Clarence Gagnon and my correspondence with a young schoolteacher, I came to Quebec ... See |
