Details

The passionate and colourful world of last century Paris is brought to life in Self Portrait. The artist Gwen John was Rodin's model and one of his many lovers - although an intensely private person, it is reported that she was capable of passionate physical love. For many years she was eclipsed as an artist by her more famous brother Augustus John, but now views about her are changing: indeed Augustus himself wrote "In fifty years' time, I shall be remembered only as the brother of Gwen". The play chronicles Gwen's persistence and sheer determination to succeed as a painter: Parisian society claimed to be freethinking but placed many obstacles in the path of any woman who tried to break with conformity. Much of the action also takes place in a modern London art gallery, as the play fascinatingly interweaves past and present. Appropriately, the self-portrait of Gwen John that is central to this Putney Theatre Company production is recreated by local artist Jocelyn Peachey, who has exhibited in London and elsewhere.

Creatives/Company

Author: Sheila Yeger
Company: Putney Theatre Company