Loving Ludwig with Hilary Pierce: The Life & Art of Ludwig Bemelmans

Description

Join us for a fascinating illustrated talk exploring the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Ludwig Bemelmans, the beloved artist and author whose work continues to enchant readers of all ages. From his early childhood in pre–World War II Austria, to formative years working in service at the famous Ritz-Carlton in New York, to his emergence as an award-winning author and sought-after professional artist, Bemelmans lived a life as colorful and charismatic as his illustrations.

Hilary Pierce, Curator of The Bemelmans Gallery at Ocean House, will share intimate stories drawn from her years of close study, revealing how Bemelmans’ life experiences directly shaped his creative point of view—with his distinctive personal philosophy marked by sparkling wit, resilience, and joie de vivre.

Guests will enjoy a special talk rich with intrigue, humor, and keen observation, celebrating the artist who created the timeless children’s classic Madeline; and who wrote and illustrated more than fifty books, along with numerous short stories for publications including Town & Country and The New Yorker.

Light refreshments will be served, followed by a Q&A with our Curator in The Bemelmans Gallery at Ocean House, which proudly exhibits the largest public collection of Ludwig Bemelmans’ work on view anywhere in the world!