Catherine Lampert, a distinguished art historian and curator, has devoted nearly half a century to the world of contemporary art, particularly through her profound connections with renowned artists like Frank Auerbach, Lucian Freud, and Euan Uglow. As she continues to work tirelessly in her late seventies, Lampert reflects on her transformative experiences as both a model and a scholar, revealing the deep emotional bonds that have shaped her life and career.
A Personal Connection to Art
Lampert’s relationship with art is not merely professional; it is deeply personal. Having spent 46 years sitting for Auerbach, she describes the experience as “life-changing.” Their weekly sessions, which began in 1978 and continued until Auerbach’s passing in November 2024, allowed her to witness the artist’s creative process up close. “Frank and his work… that was life-changing. He affected me so emotionally,” she recalls. This intimacy extended beyond the canvas, as Lampert often found herself exploring the emotional landscapes of the artists she admired.
In a recent interview, she recounted the last days of Euan Uglow, who passed away in August 2000. Uglow entrusted her with the task of compiling a catalogue raisonné of his works, and their conversations during that time were marked by a profound urgency. “Let’s get to work,” he had urged during their final meeting, showcasing the dedication he had towards his art until the very end.
Curating a Legacy
Catherine Lampert has not only modelled for these iconic figures but has also played a pivotal role in curating their legacies. Over the past year alone, she has co-authored the catalogue raisonné of Lucian Freud’s paintings and curated an extensive retrospective of Auerbach’s work. Her passion for art and her relentless work ethic are evident as she reflects on her career. “I never seem to want to stop working. It’s just so distracting to be thinking about art – and seeing it too.”
Born in Washington, DC, in 1946, Lampert moved to London at the age of 20 to study sculpture at the Slade School of Fine Art. Despite her unconventional path, she carved out a significant place in the British art scene, directing the Whitechapel Gallery from 1988 until 2001. Her commitment to artists and their narratives has repeatedly brought attention to those who might otherwise have remained overlooked, such as Paula Rego and Euan Uglow, whose recent exhibition at MK Gallery marks a significant revival of interest in his work.
A Lifelong Dedication
Lampert’s dedication to her craft has forged lasting relationships with some of the most influential artists of her time. She fondly remembers Lucian Freud’s charm and spontaneity, recalling how he would invite her for a dance, a euphemism for their close camaraderie. “It was his spirit, his humour, his directness,” she explains, highlighting the personal connections that often underpin artistic collaboration.
Reflecting on her experiences, Lampert notes the importance of punctuality in the lives of these artists. For Auerbach and others like Freud and Uglow, the presence of their sitters was crucial, as any uncertainty disrupted their creative flow. “Everything,” she says when asked what she gained from these sessions. “I always came out in a really good mood. It never failed.”
Why it Matters
Catherine Lampert stands as a testament to the power of art in forging connections and inspiring generations. Her journey through the lives and works of celebrated artists reveals not only the intricacies of their craft but also the profound emotional landscapes that accompany the creation of art. As she continues to curate, write, and connect, Lampert embodies the enduring spirit of contemporary art, reminding us that the bond between artist and model transcends the canvas, enriching the cultural tapestry of our time.
