22/09/2026
Did you know that Pierre-Auguste Renoir, one of the most influential artists to have ever lived, battled severe rheumatoid arthritis?
Renoir (1841–1919) was a pioneering artist of the Impressionist period. His vibrant spirit was reflected in colourful paintings of nudes and everyday life.
These works, some 4000 compositions, are even more remarkable when you consider that his last 25 years were spent living with severe rheumatoid arthritis.
Renoir did not let the swollen joints in his hands prevent him from bringing joy to the canvas. In fact, many argue that art became his solace from immense physical pain.
He creatively adapted his techniques: readjusting his apparatus so he could paint whilst sat, and having members of his support network place brushes in his bandage-bound hands.
At the time, rheumatoid arthritis treatment was not very advanced, but this didn’t stop him managing it by visiting spas and warmer climates, and juggling and playing ball games to keep his hands mobile.
Renoir's optimism is apparent in a famous exchange with fellow artist Henri Matisse:
‘The pain passes, but the beauty remains.’
The Renoir story is an inspirational one. Refusing to be defined by pain, he persevered as he produced his life-affirming art, and we need to be so thankful that he did.
