Camille Claudel at the Getty

A wonderful show at The Getty Center celebrates the life and art of a French sculptress who was misunderstood in her time. Movies and books have explored her tragic story. See it before July 21!

The Waltz by Camille Claudel

Born in 1864, Camille Claudel’s natural talent as a sculptress was evident from an early age and soon brought her to the attention of the renowned “father of modern sculpture,” August Rodin. She quickly became the master’s muse, studio apprentice, and lover. As her own competence and originality emerged, she struggled to gain her own identity. Women’s role in society was limited (let alone their position in the arts) and in trying to extricate herself from Rodin’s sphere of influence, Claudel’s career stalled. She accused Rodin of preventing her work from being shown in important shows. And, heartbreakingly, she aborted a child that they conceived together; Rodin was 24 years her senior. Ultimately, she had a mental breakdown and was institutionalized for over 30 years by her brother Paul.