Camille Claudel

Camille Claudel was a French sculptor who was born in 1864 and died in 1943. She studied at the Académie Colarossi and met various influential sculptures, including Alfred Boucher, her mentor. She later became very well known for studying under, as well as having a relationship with Auguste Rodin. This relationship was infamous, as Rodin was already in a relationship and over 20 years her senior. Her art style initially reflected that of Rodin's, having the opportunity to more closely study the nude human body. She was known for her work in bronze and marble, but also for making very inappropriate art that was seen as sensual, eventually leading in her being sent to a mental institution. She destroyed most of her work, leaving around 90 pieces left.