Poole Museum exhibitsrare Lucian Freud etchings
From Saturday 14 February 2026, Poole Museum invites you to step into the creative world of Lucian Freud with a free exhibition that’s all about discovery and detail.
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.
Image: Lucian Freud - Cancellation proof of Woman with an Arm Tattoo, 1996, etching. Printed by Marc Balakjian
© The Lucian Freud Archive. All Rights Reserved 2025 Bridgeman Images.
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, 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.”
Omage: Lucian Freud - Trial proof of Pluto Aged 12. 2000, etching with pastel. Printed by Marc Balakian.
© The Lucian Freud Archive. All Rights Reserved 2025 Bridgeman Images.
Sibyl Fine King, Director, The Fine Family Foundation said:
“I am delighted that Poole Museum is hosting the renowned Lucian Freud’s etching 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 print making.”
Lucian Freud’s Etchings: A Creative Collaboration runs from 14 February – 21 June 2026, with several events running as part of the exhibition, including a talk from Gill Saunders, and art workshops from Annie Freud, Lucian Freud’s daughter.
To find out more about the events and book your free entry ticket from Saturday 14 February, please visit: