Artists for the Ballet
Edgar Degas (1834-1917)
When it comes to artworks that focus on ballet, it is usually the French Impressionist artist- Degas- who immediately springs to mind, with over half of his works being focused on this particular theme. He is known for his delightful drawings, paintings, and sculptures depicting dancers both in rehearsal and on the stage, that capture both their elegance and their energy.
Pierre Carrier-Belleuse (1851-1932)
The French artist, Pierre Carrier-Belleuse, was best known for his pictures of Ballerinas, most often illustrating them during rehearsal, relaxing in class, or fixing their appearance. The soft colour palates and frothy textures of the dancer’s appearances suited the subtle and blendable qualities of his favourite medium to work with: pastels.
Louis Icart (1888-1950)
Lous Icart was a French painter and illustrator. His work depicting dancers often had sensual or humorous undertones and very much worked within the Art Deco style that was popular at the time. Throughout each picture, he always maintained a certain level of elegance and glamour that is still just as charming and romantic to this day.
Carlotta Edwards (1894-1977)
Carlotta Edwards’ paintings of the ballet were wildly popular in the 1950’s. Nowadays, due to the mass manufacture of all kinds of prints and products featuring these idyllic little scenes, her artwork is seen as incredibly kitsch and perhaps a little bit gaudy. Nevertheless, it isn’t difficult to see their charm and appeal. They depict ballet as many believe ballet to be- light, frivolous, and without much depth- even if many would disagree!
Theyre Lee-Elliott (1903-1988)
Theyre Lee-Elliott began painting ballet dancers while he was working at Sadler’s Wells Theatre on their sets and scenery. His work is incredibly striking and contemporary, full of rich colours and textures that confidently portray the dancer’s movements and the rich lighting of the stage. In 1947, he presented an exhibition titled ‘Paintings of the Ballet’, alongside which a corresponding book was published as well.
