Edward Burra – Ithell Colquhoun

Edward Burra runs in parallel with an exhibition of works by Ithell Colquhoun, offering visitors the chance to see two influential British artists with one ticket.

Explore the enigmatic world of Edward Burra

Edward Burra is one of the most distinctive British artists of the 20th century, renowned for his vibrant, satirical scenes of the uninhibited urban underworld and queer culture during the ‘Roaring Twenties.’ A master of watercolour painting, the exhibition will show how Burra pushed the boundaries of the traditionally delicate medium to create bold and vivid scenes. His practice encompasses a rich spectrum of imaginative works influenced by everything from music and performance to popular culture, literature, and art history.

The first retrospective in London in 40 years, it will showcase Burra’s interest in experiencing society and culture abroad. A keen social documentarian, his scenes also include macabre landscapes that reflect his experience of world events, including the Spanish Civil War, Second World War, and post-war industrial revolution. Burra’s lived experience of disability influenced his artistic practice and may have informed his portrayal of marginalised communities.

Discover an in-depth view of Burra’s career with over 80 paintings and drawings along with material from the Edward Burra archive at Tate, providing visitors an insight into the artist’s extraordinarily imaginative creative process.

The first major exhibition of visionary artist Ithell Colquhoun

One of the most radical artists of her generation, Ithell Colquhoun was an important figure in British Surrealism during the 1930s and 1940s. An innovative writer and practicing occultist, Colquhoun charted her own course, investigating surrealist methods of unconscious picture-making and fearlessly delving into the realms of myth and magic.

This landmark exhibition of over 140 artworks and archival materials traces Colquhoun’s evolution, from her early student work and engagement with the surrealist movement, to her fascination with the intertwining realms of art, sexual identity, ecology and occultism. It culminates in a room dedicated to Colquhoun’s interpretation of the Taro deck – her most accomplished fusion of her artistic and magical practice.

Explore Colquhoun’s enthralling, multi-layered universe through writings, drawings, paintings, many of which have never been shown publicly before.

The exhibition will debut at Tate St Ives in February 2025 before arriving at Tate Britain.

Edward Burra and Ithell Colquhoun are in partnership with Lockton. Supported by the Edward Burra Exhibition Supporters Circle and Ithell Colquhoun Exhibition Supporters Circle. With additional support from Tate International Council and Tate Members.