COLUMBUS, OHIO.-Renoir’s Women will feature more than 30 key works loaned from renowned museums and collections around the world that reveal the breadth of Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s vision during all phases of his career. On view September 23, 2005 to January 8, 2006, this exclusive exhibition is the first to focus on Renoir’s representation of women, one of his favorite subjects, while illuminating the place of women in his art. This will be the only opportunity to see these outstanding works exhibited together.

First in a series of exhibitions inspired by works in the permanent collection of the Columbus Museum of Art that highlight American and European modern artists, Renoir’s Women is organized by the Columbus Museum of Art with internationally recognized curator and scholar Ann Dumas.

Renoir’s Women will explore the enduring nature of Renoir’s interest in women through his depictions of maternity, children, domestic settings, and nudes. One of the great masters of Impressionism, Renoir created works that are beloved for their brilliant color and dazzling brushwork. More than 20 museums and private collections from around the world are lending paintings, works on paper, and sculpture to this significant exhibition, which includes three Renoir treasures from the Museum’s own collection.

“Renoir’s Women is a fabulous opportunity to experience the luminescence of this preeminent Impressionist. Never before has a museum explored Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s sensual and opulent representation of women,” said Nannette V. Maciejunes, executive director of the Columbus Museum of Art.

Columbus Museum of Art programs being developed for Renoir’s Women include an audio guide, symposium, lectures, and a film series by Jean Renoir, the painter’s son. Specialized, group, and school tours as well as hotel packages will be available. Impressionist-inspired menu items will be offered in the Museum’s Palette Café, and a full-color book by Merrell Publishers of London and New York will accompany the exhibition.

Support for Renoir’s Women is provided by presenting sponsor Huntington Bank, major sponsor Limited Brands, and donations to the Museum’s Visiting Masters Fund. The Columbus Foundation, the Greater Columbus Arts Council, and the Ohio Arts Council provide ongoing Museum support.

“Huntington is pleased to support the Museum in organizing this exciting exhibition," said Thomas E. Hoaglin, Huntington Chairman, President, and CEO. "Through our strong partnership, we hope to help continue the Museum’s history of enriching the lives of Central Ohioans.”

The Columbus Museum of Art is dedicated to creating great experiences with great art to reach as many people as possible—through outstanding collections, exhibitions, and learning opportunities.