Edward Burra is one of the most distinctive British artists of the 20th century, renowned for his vibrant, satirical scenes of the urban underworld and queer culture during the ‘Roaring Twenties.’ A master of watercolour painting, the exhibition shows how Burra pushed the boundaries of the traditionally delicate medium to create bold and vivid scenes. His practice is 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 and Second World War. 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 creative process.
Edward Burra Red Peppers Dundee Art Gallery 1934–1935 © Estate of Edward Burra
Edward Burra
Dancing Skeletons (1934)
Tate
Find out more about the Edward Burra exhibition with our exhibition guide.
Need a bigger font size of the exhibition guide? Download the large print guide [0.76MB].
Tate Britain's step-free entrance is on Atterbury Street. It has automatic sliding doors and there is a ramp down to the entrance with central handrails.
The Exhibition is on the Lower floor of the gallery.
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