The Teloglion Foundation of Art holds an exhibition dedicated to this the bohemian artist of the Moulin Rouge; his works depict in the most exiting way the atmosphere of the turn of the century, the so-called “beautiful era” in Paris.

Toulouse Lautrec’s Belle Époque

This beautiful epoch is being revived in every corner of the city of Thessaloniki with music, dancing, theatrical performances and mostly by the great exhibition titled “Toulouse Lautrec” housed at the Teloglion Foundation of Art.

Toulouse Lautrec, a peculiar yet charming personality, the so-called post-impressionist painter / reporter, conveys the feeling and atmosphere of the Belle Époque’s nightlife, through his artwork. It was an era characterised by cancan dancing and flirting with dancers of the Moulin Rouge – the “pleasure factory”.

Lautrec was a painter of the seemingly carefree and wild lifestyle of the Montmartre’s cabarets, having lent to a painting the qualities of a poster and vice versa. He used to depict individuals and spaces the bourgeoisie had labelled as marginal.

By unmasking the truth and beauty under the heavy veil of “ugliness”, he played a leading part in creating the legend of the star system of his age; female dancers and singers, prostitutes and artists of all kinds gained immortality thanks to his unconventional artistic creation.

Hundreds of works of art typical of the eccentric artist, family heirlooms and personal items are on display in the premises of the Teloglion Foundation of Art, in an exhibition that teaches culture! 

Embarking upon a journey towards the truth, the visitor is transported into the heart of the Belle Époque, by means of Lautrec’s distinctive colouring and light, and the female figures that left their mark on him.