René Magritte: The Pleasure Principle

René Magritte (1898–1967) is one of the most revered and popular artists of the 20th century. This summer, Tate Liverpool presents René Magritte: The Pleasure Principle, the biggest exhibition of the Belgian surrealist’s work in England for twenty years.

Renowned for witty images depicting everyday objects such as apples, bowler hats and pipes in unusual settings, Magritte’s art plays with the idea of reality and illusion.

Magritte’s work has had an enduring effect on the art world, inspiring artists ranging from John Baldessari and Ed Ruscha to Jasper Johns and Andy Warhol. Magritte’s impact has also been felt throughout popular culture. Musicians such as Paul Simon, directors Jean-Luc Godard and Terry Gilliam, and many writers and advertisers have all been influenced by Magritte’s famous images.

Tate Liverpool’s exhibition will reveal the inspiration behind the artist’s celebrated style, focusing on the less explored aspects of Magritte’s life and artistic practice.

Paintings will feature alongside drawings, collages, examples of Magritte’s early commercial work and rarely seen photographs and films. The exhibition will include iconic pieces by the artist as well as some more surprising works, offering visitors a fresh insight into the intriguing world of Magritte. Not to be missed.