For the first time ever, 27 intimate drawings by Émile Bernard, a close friend of Vincent van Gogh, are being exhibited at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. This special collection of works offers rare insight into Bernard’s artistic evolution and his deeply personal relationship with Van Gogh, providing art lovers a unique glimpse into 19th-century artistic exchange.

These remarkable drawings, sent by Bernard to Van Gogh in 1888, will be on display until January 12, 2025, in a small-scale exhibition located on the second floor of the museum’s permanent collection. This exceptional event sheds new light on the art that Van Gogh and his brother, Theo, collected from their contemporaries, revealing the important role Bernard played in Van Gogh’s creative circle.

Friendship Rooted in Art

Van Gogh and Émile Bernard first crossed paths in 1886 in Paris, at the studio of Fernand Cormon, where both were students. Their mutual passion for modern painting blossomed into a deep friendship, cemented during their frequent visits to Julien Tanguy’s small paint shop, a hub for aspiring artists. Their connection thrived despite an age gap of fifteen years, with Van Gogh serving as a mentor figure for Bernard.

While Van Gogh left Paris in 1888 to pursue a quieter life in Arles, the pair continued their artistic discussions through letters. These exchanges reveal not only the camaraderie they shared but also the profound influence they had on each other’s work. Van Gogh’s admiration for Bernard is evident in one of his letters where he writes, “Actually, I like everything that you do, as you know – and perhaps nobody before me has liked what you do as much as I do.”

Bernard’s drawings were an extension of these written exchanges, visually illustrating the themes and ideas the two artists often discussed. The bond between them was rooted in their shared vision for modern art, a vision that pushed boundaries and explored subjects others found controversial or too raw.

The Drawings: A Window into Parisian Life

Of the 27 drawings, 17 explore a provocative subject—prostitution in Paris. This theme, which was not uncommon among modern artists of the time, delves into the grittier, often hidden aspects of urban life. Bernard’s works present a stark view of this world, offering an unfiltered portrayal of a city grappling with poverty, inequality, and vice.

One of the key pieces in this collection is Brothel Scene (1888), a vivid depiction of a prostitute seducing a client while the madam of the establishment looks on approvingly. Bernard’s confident ink strokes, accentuated with subtle watercolors, capture the raw energy and tension of the moment. These scenes were intended as a commentary on the societal issues of the time, presenting prostitution as a part of the modern world that deserved to be acknowledged, if not accepted.

The decision to include such subjects in his work reflected Bernard’s broader commitment to portraying all aspects of life—both the beautiful and the grim. His ability to illustrate these contrasts is evident in the other drawings within this collection, which depict a variety of subjects, from rural scenes in Brittany to moments of leisure in the Parisian suburb of Asnières.

A Versatile Artist

While the prostitution-themed drawings have attracted significant attention, the exhibition also showcases Bernard’s versatility. Several works illustrate rural life, such as scenes of Breton peasants going about their daily activities. These drawings are simple yet evocative, capturing the quiet dignity of country life.

Other pieces in the collection portray biblical scenes, demonstrating Bernard’s ability to shift between sacred and profane subjects with ease. His command of ink and watercolor adds a fluidity to these works, allowing for a spontaneous, expressive quality that feels both modern and timeless.

The diversity of themes and techniques represented in this exhibition highlights Bernard’s flexibility and his willingness to challenge artistic conventions. His drawings, while seemingly simple, are imbued with a deep understanding of the human experience, making them both visually striking and emotionally resonant.

Why This Exhibition Matters

This exhibition offers more than just an opportunity to view rare drawings by one of Van Gogh’s closest friends; it invites visitors to explore the dynamic relationship between two giants of the art world. Bernard’s works provide insight into the ideas and inspirations that shaped modern art during this period, while also reflecting the intellectual and emotional exchanges that defined his friendship with Van Gogh.

For art enthusiasts, this exhibition is a rare opportunity to see works that were originally intended for Van Gogh’s eyes only. It’s a moment to witness the intimate visual dialogue between two artists who profoundly impacted each other’s creative journeys.

Conclusion: A Unique Artistic Exchange

The exhibition of Émile Bernard’s drawings at the Van Gogh Museum is a rare and precious look into the intersection of art, friendship, and modernism. These works, hidden from the public for so long, now serve as a testament to the depth of Bernard’s artistic vision and the enduring legacy of his friendship with Van Gogh. This presentation stems from new scholarly research into the art Vincent and his brother Theo collected from their contemporaries.

The collection underscores the power of artistic collaboration and the ways in which personal connections can fuel creativity. Whether you are an art history enthusiast or a casual museum-goer, this exhibition is an unmissable opportunity to engage with the personal and profound side of 19th-century art.

What Do You Think?

As you explore this unique collection, we invite you to reflect on the themes presented in Bernard’s drawings. What emotions do they evoke for you? Do they challenge your perspective on modern art or 19th-century life in Paris? Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments below!