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Kiki MontparnasseFrench singer, actress, artist, model, model of surrealists and artists
Date of Birth: 02.10.1901
Country:  France |
Content:
- Alice Ernestine Prin: A Muse and Artist of the Surrealist Era
- Muse to the Surrealists
- Artistic Pursuits
- Memoirs and Café
- Legacy and Recognition
Alice Ernestine Prin: A Muse and Artist of the Surrealist Era
Early Life and Modeling CareerAlice Ernestine Prin, known as Kiki, was born an illegitimate child and raised by her grandmother. At twelve, she moved to Paris and worked various jobs. From the age of 14, she became a nude model in sculpture studios.
Muse to the Surrealists
In 1921, Kiki met and became the companion and muse of Man Ray. He captured her in numerous photographs, including the iconic "Le Violon d'Ingres," and featured her in his experimental films. Other renowned artists who depicted Kiki in their works included Moïse Kisling, Fujita, Per Krohg, Hermine David, and Pablo Gargallo.
Artistic Pursuits
Despite being primarily known as a model, Kiki also pursued her own artistic endeavors. In 1927, she held her only lifetime exhibition of paintings and drawings at the "Le Sacre du Printemps" gallery in Paris.
Memoirs and Café
Kiki left a lasting legacy through her memoirs, "Paris 1920" (1929), which featured prefaces by Ernest Hemingway and Fujita. It was banned by censors but later lifted in the late 1970s. In the 1930s, she owned and operated a café called "Chez Kiki" in Montparnasse.
Legacy and Recognition
Kiki was buried in the Montparnasse Cemetery in Paris. In her honor, a variety of the daylily has been named after her. Her contributions as a muse and artist continue to inspire and captivate audiences today.
