Lucian Freud's Etchings A Creative Collaboration

‘I love the element of danger and mystery’ – Lucian Freud on etching



Lucian Freud’s Etchings: A Creative Collaboration invites you to peek behind the curtain of one of Britain’s most celebrated artists of the 20th century, Lucian Freud.



Freud is famous for his bold, brushy paintings, but did you know he had a secret love affair with printmaking? This touring exhibition from the V&A spills the beans, showcasing rare trial prints gathered by his long-time collaborator, master printer Marc Balakjian. For over two decades, these two worked side by side, crafting etchings that echo the familiar faces and themes of Freud’s paintings, yet each stands proudly as its own work of art.

Most of the works in this exhibition are unpublished and have rarely been exhibited before, so this is a not-to-be-missed opportunity to see them together. They offer fascinating glimpses into Freud’s creative process and spotlight the remarkable teamwork between artist and printer.



These intricate, intimate prints reveal Freud’s passion for printmaking and unfold the story of a one-of-a-kind artistic partnership.
This intriguing exhibition runs until 21 June 2026, and entry is completely free - so everyone’s welcome to drop in, take your time, and enjoy a closer look at some truly extraordinary works.

Event Website:
Lucian Freud's Etchings A Creative Collaboration