Suzanne Valadon Reproductions

Suzanne Valadon (September 23, 1865 - April 7, 1938), born Marie-Clementine Valadon was a French Painter and artist. Born into poverty, Valadon worked a multitude of small jobs including a milliner's workshop, a factory making wreaths, selling vegetables, and waitress. At the age of 15, Valadon ran away from home to join the circus, working as an acrobat until she fell from the trapeze which ended her career. After her recovery, Valadon debuted herself as a model. In the 10 years that she worked as a model she posed for numerous artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec, Henner, and Renoir. The most famous paintings that she posed for were Renoir's Dance at Bougival and Dance in the City. As she was posing, Valadon educated herself in painting by observing the artists at work. Suzanne was also the mother of painter, Maurice Utrillo. Her most well-known piece, Joy of Life, which featured in addition to female nudes included her lover who was also a school friend of her sons.