Francis Bacon: First Impressions - James Birch

James Birch begins by recalling how, as a child, he knew Francis Bacon, Denis Wirth-Miller and Richard Chopping. From there the story unfolds, encompassing Russian sailors, a Russian spy, and the exhibition of Bacon's work in Moscow in 1988.
'Bacon in Moscow' by James Birch is published in paperback by CHEERIO on 1st June 2023.
In our 'Francis Bacon: First Impressions' series of interviews, each interviewee was asked ‘What were your first impressions upon meeting Francis?’ First Impressions is directed by Harriet Vyner and produced by the Estate of Francis Bacon in partnership with HENI Talks.

[@wilfridwood798]

what a charming and frank chap, no wonder Francis liked him

[@3eyes4watching285]

Good memories of a great artist

[@btate1281]

Yet another superb insight into Francis Bacon's life. Mr Birch's observations are a sheer delight! I do hope there are more lined up in the First Impressions series.

[@MrGarryJoseph]

What comes across for me, during thse insightful interviews, is the veil FB created to protect himself. And his profound intelligence, ambition, humanity, and lonliness.

[@Eudaimonia88]

Sweet chap... perfect company for Francis.

[@pitchforkcustom]

"Champagne for my real friends, real pain for my sham friends". that’s all these liggers and laggers are..

[@MontyCantsin5]

16:07:🤣

[@adude9882]

Russia - simply the Eisenstein thing.

[@zamiadams4343]

Snooker but because lake size un-adult.