Tate Liverpool presents the first major UK exhibition in 30 years dedicated to renowned modern artist Fernand Léger (1881–1955). Fernand Léger: New Times, New Pleasures brings together more than 40 paintings, including many never before seen in the UK. Featuring abstract and figurative paintings, drawings, a large-scale mural, films, graphic design, books and textiles, the exhibition explores how Léger redefined the value of art to 20th century society and is open until 17 March 2019. Creating works in a diverse range of media, Léger was a politically-engaged artist, with an unwavering belief in the social function of art for everyone.

Born into a modest farming family, central to the artist’s work was a belief that art should be enjoyed by all, not just society’s privileged elite. For Léger, modern art was a means of elevating the quality of life for the working man. Seeing beauty in the everyday he created paintings depicting the world of labour including construction workers and people taking part in leisurely pursuits under radiant blue skies. Inspired by classical art and sculpture, he endowed his subjects with a sense of monumentality and dignity.

Jeune fille tenant une fleur. Léger, Fernand (French, 1881-1955). Oil on canvas, height 55.0 cm, width 46.0 cm, 1954.

Léger’s work was heavily influenced by his surroundings and his experience of modern life. Included in the exhibition are his collaborations with architects Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand. Also on display is his experimental 1924 film, Ballet Mécanique. This, the first major UK exhibition dedicated to Léger’s work in thirty years, celebrates the artist’s desire to make art part of everyday life. Not to be missed.

The exhibition is open now and tickets are available here.

Event Date: Friday 23rd November 2018 - Sunday 17th March 2019

Categories: #Liverpool2018 | Accessible event | Arts | exhibition | Family | Liverpool | News | Photography

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