POOLE Museum invites visitors to step into the creative world of Lucian Freud with a free exhibition all about discovery and detail.

Lucian Freud’s Etchings: A Creative Collaboration, launching Saturday, February 14, shines a light on the artist’s lesser-known passion for printmaking, displaying intricate etchings that reveal his creative work beyond celebrated paintings.

Part of a touring programme from the V&A, this exhibition in The Fine Gallery showcases 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.

The display also reflects Freud’s personal connection to Dorset, where he attended Bryanston School and later owned a home near Shaftesbury.

Museum interim director Jaine Fitzpatrick 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.

“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.”

Exhibition curator and honorary senior research fellow at the V&A Gill Saunders added: “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.”

The Fine Family Foundation director Sibyl Fine King said: “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.”

The exhibition runs until June 21, with several events taking place 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 a ticket, visit www.poolemuseum.org.uk/Lucian-freud