Ithell Colquhoun’s exhibition “Between Worlds” opens at Tate St Ives, showcasing over 170 works that highlight her role as a pivotal figure in British Surrealism and as an occultist. The show examines her career, revealing connections between Surrealism and occult themes, while celebrating the recognition of female artists in this genre.
The upcoming exhibition at Tate St Ives titled “Between Worlds” showcases the work of Ithell Colquhoun, a significant but often overlooked figure in British Surrealism. The exhibition, which later travels to Tate Britain, highlights her dual identity as an artist and occultist, presenting over 170 pieces of her work, many of which are being displayed for the first time. Curator Katy Norris explains the importance of Colquhoun’s connections between London and Cornwall, where she maintained an active artistic network. The exhibition marks a new interest in female Surrealists and Colquhoun’s explorations of gender and spirituality.
Spurred by Tate’s acquisition of Colquhoun’s archive, the exhibition tracks her artistic journey from her early achievements at the Slade School of Fine Art to her later, more esoteric works. Key pieces include studies for significant paintings like “Scylla” from 1938, showcasing her experimentation with Surrealist techniques such as fumage and decalcomania. Colquhoun’s deviation from Surrealist norms led to her expulsion from the British Surrealist group, after which she delved deeper into occult themes, resulting in several publications.
The exhibition reflects a growing recognition of women artists in the Surrealist movement, drawing connections between occult practices and Surrealism. Co-curator Emma Chambers notes that many artists from this era sought transformative ways to reinterpret the world. Today, Colquhoun’s insights on gender, ecology, and divine femininity resonate with contemporary themes, enhancing her relevance in modern discourse on art and culture.
Ithell Colquhoun (1906-1988), an influential British artist and occultist, has gained posthumous recognition for her contributions to Surrealism. Her dual interests in art and the mystical led to a unique body of work that has often been overshadowed by her occultist reputation. This exhibition seeks to unite and explore these facets of her life, reaffirming her importance within the Surrealist movement.
The “Between Worlds” exhibition seeks to restore Ithell Colquhoun’s legacy by celebrating her artistic achievements and exploring the links between her artwork and occult practices. With many pieces being exhibited for the first time, it shines a light on her role within the Surrealist movement and her ongoing relevance in discussions surrounding gender and spirituality in art.
Original Source: www.theartnewspaper.com