This major retrospective exhibition is the first to chart the full length of Wilhelmina Barns-Graham’s incredible career, covering eight decades.
One of the most innovative British artists of the 20th century, Barns-Graham communicated her physical, emotional and spiritual responses to the world around her through her work. This was particularly true of her deep connection with the landscapes of Cornwall, Scotland and continental Europe. She carved out a vibrant style of abstract painting known for its energetic rhythms and bold colour.
Featuring over 170 paintings, drawings, prints and archive materials, the exhibition will trace Barns-Graham’s development from her student days at the Edinburgh College of Art and early years in St Ives, where she found her place in a lively community of painters and sculptors, through to her later years working between Cornwall and Scotland. It concludes with paintings from her Scorpio series, created in her final two decades. She described her work from this time as a celebration of life, and of joy.
Supported by Tate Members.