A Life Dedicated to Uruguayan Art
Born in Montevideo, Uruguay, Ernesto Laroche was a multifaceted figure in the nation's cultural landscape. His professional journey began in 1906 as a draftsman for bridges and roads, but his artistic vocation soon took precedence. After studying under the painter Federico Renóm between 1893 and 1896, Laroche established himself as a painter, printmaker, and art critic. He served as the secretary of the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes upon its founding and later became its second director, a position he held until his death in Montevideo.
Beyond his administrative roles, Laroche was a prolific educator and writer. He taught drawing at the Facultad de Ciencias Económicas and within the Enseñanza Secundaria y Preparatoria. Under the pseudonym Horace Le Serton, he published art criticism in Montevideo newspapers. In 1939, he authored the book Algunos pintores y escultores, which earned a prize from the Uruguayan Ministry of Public Instruction.
Artistic Vision and Diverse Works
The oeuvre of Ernesto Laroche is characterized by a profound commitment to capturing the essence of the Uruguayan territory. His paintings frequently focus on the natural landscapes of his homeland, including:
Laroche was an incredibly versatile creator, producing over a thousand works across various media. His technical range included miniatures, large-scale compositions, mural decorations, lithographs, etchings, monotypes, watercolors, and pastels. His notable works include Encuentro entre Artigas y Rondeau en el Cerrito, which is installed in the center of the parliament, and La carreta. His mastery was recognized internationally, notably when he received the gold medal at the 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition.
