Peter Doig: Etchings for Derek Walcott

10 Feb – 29 May 2023
Gilbert and Ildiko Butler Drawings Gallery

This exhibition presents for for the first time a series of 19 etchings by Peter Doig (born 1959) inspired by the work of his friend, the poet Derek Walcott (1930 – 2017).

Although Doig was born in Scotland and Walcott in Saint Lucia, both spent many years living and working in Trinidad, at different times. After first meeting on the island in early 2014 they developed a friendship based on admiration for each other’s work and sharing their different experiences of living in Trinidad and elsewhere.

In the last years of his life, Walcott wrote a suite of poems each inspired by one of Doig’s paintings and published as Morning, Paramin in 2016. In turn, Doig produced this group of etchings responding to the poems. They cover a range of subjects, from a portrait of Walcott painting to Trinidadian and Alpine themes, as well as images relating to their shared interest in the Impressionist artist Camille Pissarro (born on the Caribbean island of Saint Thomas).

For Doig, printmaking is an integral part of his artistic life: his prints and his paintings often work in dialogue with one another. By showcasing this vital aspect of his practice, visitors will be able to explore the full span of Doig’s creative process.

The Morgan Stanley Exhibition: Peter Doig can also be seen in the Denise Coates Exhibitions Gallery on the third floor from 10 Feb – 29 May 2023. Please purchase a Peter Doig + Gallery Entry ticket to view both exhibitions and the permanent collection during your visit.