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.
Edward Burra
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, art history and societal events.
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 often include lively bohemian caricatures which comment on the people he encountered overseas. Burra’s lived experience of disability informed his portrayal of other 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.
Ithell Colquhoun
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 200 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, early theatre projects and mural designs, 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.
Both Edward Burra and Ithell Colquhoun are in partnership with Lockton. With additional support from the Edward Burra Exhibition Supporters Circle the Ithell Colquhoun Exhibition Supporters Circle, and Tate Members.