An exhibition in London, *Astonishing Things: The Drawings of Victor Hugo*, showcases the lesser-known artistic talent of Victor Hugo, renowned for his literary works. It highlights his illustrations that reflect his poetic spirit, influential in the Romantic and Symbolist movements, and praised by artists like Vincent van Gogh.
Victor Hugo, renowned for classics like The Hunchback of Notre-Dame and Les Miserables, also excelled as an illustrator, an aspect highlighted in a new London exhibition. Astonishing Things: The Drawings of Victor Hugo opened at the Royal Academy of Arts, celebrating his artistic talent 140 years posthumously. The exhibition notes that while Hugo was a prominent public figure in 19th century France, he found solace in drawing. His ink and wash illustrations, depicting castles, monsters, and seascapes, are described as equally poetic as his literary works. Hugo’s artistry influenced numerous poets and artists, including the Surrealists, and Vincent van Gogh famously referred to them as ‘astonishing things’.
The exhibition demonstrates Victor Hugo’s remarkable yet underappreciated talent for drawing, showcasing how his illustrations complement his literary achievements. It highlights the deep connection between his visual art and the emotive power of his writing, affirming his status as a multifaceted artist.
Original Source: www.dawn.com