Lucian Freud: New Perspectives, National Gallery review – a powerful punch in the gut
Sarah Kent | the arts desk | 5th October 2022
Yet another show of Freud portraits has one writer asking, “how much is too much?” Both curators and critics try to prioritise his paintings over retelling his colourful private life. So, what gives Freiud works their power? “Nearly all his encounters in the studio seem full of tension; there’s a power struggle going on. Who is in control?” One suggested answer – Freud was less interested in realism than the painting process: “the act of creation was more vital and rewarding than the end product”.
