Arts, Poole | Posted on January 30th, 2026 | return to news

Rare Lucian Freud etchings on display at Poole Museum

‘Lucian Freud’s Etchings: A Creative Collaboration’ runs from 14 February until 21 June in The Fine Gallery.

Rare etchings are on display at Poole Museum from 14 February until 21 June.

‘Lucian Freud’s Etchings: A Creative Collaboration’ shines a light on the artist’s lesser-known passion for printmaking, displaying intricate etchings that reveal Freud’s creative work beyond his celebrated paintings.

Part of a touring programme from the V&A, this exhibition in The Fine Gallery gives visitors the chance to explore rarely seen work by one of Britain’s most influential artists.

At the heart of the exhibition is a unique collection of trial proofs collected by master printer Marc Balakjian, who worked alongside Freud for more than two decades. These prints tell the story of an extraordinary artistic partnership and offer a fascinating glimpse into Freud’s creative process.

With a local twist, the exhibition also reflects Freud’s personal connection to Dorset, where he attended Bryanston School and later owned a home near Shaftesbury, bringing his work back to where a part of his story began.

Jaine Fitzpatrick, interim director, Poole Museum, said: “This exhibition isn’t just for art enthusiasts; it’s for anyone who’s curious or simply wants to take a pause.

“Lucian’s work offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process, and seeing these pieces up close is a truly special moment that could bring calm, controversy, clarity, or even spark a whole new area of your imagination. With free entry, we’re making art accessible to all, offering everyone the chance to explore something new and unexpected.

“Even if this isn’t your kind of art, come and explore – you will leave feeling inspired, refreshed and connected in ways you didn’t expect.”

Gill Saunders, exhibition curator and honorary senior research fellow at the V&A, said: “These extraordinary prints illuminate the remarkable creative partnership between Lucian Freud and master printer Marc Balakjian, offering insights that are rarely accessible to the public.

“We’re delighted to see this collection shared with new audiences in Poole, where the intimate character of these unique works can be appreciated up close and in depth.”

Sibyl Fine King, director of The Fine Family Foundation, said: “I am delighted that Poole Museum is hosting the renowned Lucian Freud etchings exhibition, offering residents and visitors an opportunity to view and learn about this distinguished artist.

“Lucian Freud painstakingly captures the essence of his subjects through detailed drawings etched on a copper plate, which is then printed on paper. It will be a fabulous opportunity to learn about the process and joys of printmaking.”

There are several events running as part of the exhibition, including a talk from Gill Saunders, exhibition curator from the V&A, and art workshops from Annie Freud, Lucian Freud’s daughter.

To find out more about the events and book your free entry ticket, visit https://www.poolemuseum.org.uk/discover/lucian-freuds-etchings-a-creative-collaboration.