Drawn on the Western Front: Curator’s Introduction

Anna Lavelle, lead curator of the new exhibition ‘Drawn on the Western Front’, explores the wartime work of French artist Paul Sarrut.

When we think about the First World War, the images that usually come to mind are trenches, mud and large-scale battles. This talk explores a different perspective through the work of Paul Sarrut, a French artist who sketched Indian and British soldiers while serving as a liaison officer on the Western Front.

Curator Anna Lavelle will examine how Sarrut captured everyday moments behind the lines. His depictions of men resting, waiting, reading and recovering offer a rare visual record of soldiering during the First World War, as well as documenting the diversity of those who served.

Alongside the drawings, the talk will explore the wider stories, objects and research that shaped this new exhibition.

Generously supported by Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC

About the speaker

Anna Lavelle is an art curator at the National Army Museum and principal curator of the Museum’s works on paper. Her research focuses on print culture, visual dissemination and the representation of military identity.