Titanic Belfast is proud to announce it will host Lucian Freud's Etchings: A Creative Collaboration, a major free exhibition presented in partnership with the V&A, from 1st May to 30th September 2025.

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Making its global debut in Belfast, this remarkable exhibition will be showcased exclusively at Titanic Belfast – the only location on the island of Ireland to feature the artwork – before it continues its international tour.

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The exhibition offers an intimate glimpse into the artistic process of Lucian Freud, one of Britain’s most important 20th-century artists, through a series of rare etchings, many of which are being exhibited for the first time. The trial proofs on display trace Freud’s 25-year creative partnership with master printer Marc Balakjian, highlighting the technical and emotional depth of their collaboration. Among the centrepieces is Donegal Man (2007), a powerful portrait of Pat Doherty, Chairman of Titanic Belfast, adding a deeply personal dimension to the exhibition’s Belfast debut.

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On loan from the V&A – a global leader in celebrating creativity and design – the exhibition marks the first time these works have been shown outside of London, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience Freud’s graphic works in an iconic setting.

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Judith Owens MBE, Chief Executive of Titanic Belfast, commented: “It’s an honour to announce that Titanic Belfast will be the first venue to host Lucian Freud's Etchings: A Creative Collaboration as part of its global tour. We are thrilled to display never-before-seen pieces from one of the world’s most renowned artists and bring yet another compelling reason for people to visit Belfast. The exhibition is especially meaningful given its connection to our Chairman, Pat Doherty, and we’re proud to offer this cultural experience free of charge to our visitors.”

Gill Saunders, Curator of Prints at the V&A, added: “Made over a period of 25 years, Lucian Freud’s extraordinary etchings demonstrate his developing mastery of this challenging medium. Shown together for the first time, this unique collection of trial proofs offers fascinating insights into Freud’s working process, and shows how his achievements in print were built on his close collaboration with master printer Marc Balakjian.”

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The exhibition is generously sponsored by Loftlines, Northern Ireland’s first build-to-rent development located in the Titanic Quarter, following a £150 million investment by Legal & General.

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Adam Burney, Senior Fund Manager, Asset Management at Legal & General, said: “Lucian Freud’s Etchings: A Creative Collaboration celebrates artistry, collaboration and culture — values that sit at the heart of Loftlines and L&G’s vision for a vibrant new community. We’re proud to support this world-class exhibition alongside our closest neighbour, Titanic Belfast, and to mark the beginning of the Loftlines journey in a city whose cultural momentum continues to build.”

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Lucian Freud's Etchings: A Creative Collaboration will be open daily from 1st May to 30th September 2025, located in the Andrews Gallery on Level 2 of Titanic Belfast. Admission is free.

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For more information, visit: www.titanicbelfast.com