The John siblings

Magazine Antiques, Nov, 2004 by Miriam Kramer

As far as biography is concerned, there cannot be two more disparate siblings than Gwen John and her brother Augustus. They both studied at the Slade School of Fine Art in London in the 1890s, and both were infatuated with the same woman, Dorothy "Dorelia" McNeill, but after that their stories diverge greatly. He went on to become one of the most famous British artists of his day, known not only for his pictures but also for an unconventional way of life. She became a semi-recluse in Paris.

Augustus John married Ida Nettleship but did not give up his liaison with Dorelia. He had children by them both, as well as with other partners, and with this menage followed a Bohemian way of life. The landscape and people of the south of France became important themes in his paintings.

Gwen John moved to Paris, to study with Auguste Rodin, and became one of the sculptor's mistresses. On his death in 1917 she became a devout Roman Catholic, and her modest lodgings and religious beliefs became the center of her life. Her paintings included more spiritual and meditative portraits of single figures.

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The Tate Britain in London is mounting an exhibition devoted to the Johns entitled Gwen John and Augustus John, which is on view until January 9, 2005. It includes some 140 works. Of particular interest are early portraits the Johns made of themselves, of each other, and of Dorelia. The curators of the exhibition are David Fraser Jenkins and Chris Stephens, who were assisted by Cecily Langdale. The accompanying catalogue, with essays by Jenkins and Lisa Tickner, is published by Tate Publishing and distributed in North America by Harry N. Abrams. It may be obtained by telephoning 800-759-0190.

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