June will see the start of a new touring exhibition dedicated to the work of pre-eminent Modern British artist John Armstrong ARA (1893-1973).
The exhibition looks at the diverse range of work produced over the lifetime of this prolific artist.
Although Armstrong studied briefly at St John’s Wood School of Art he was essentially self-taught. His one-man exhibition in 1928 established him in avant-garde circles, including that of Unit One with Ben Nicholson, Paul Nash and others.
He later became deeply involved in theatre and film, designing sets for the Royal Ballet and costumes for ten of Alexander Korda’s epic films.
His diverse work shows the influence of Surrealism, but he was never a Surrealist; instead he forged a very personal style that attacked conventional ideas and beliefs with ironic wit and personal symbolism.
The exhibition is complemented with a display of work from Armstong’s contemporaries including Roland Penrose, Tristram Hillier and Marion Elizabeth Adnams.
Piano Nobile are proud to support the exhibition with loans to both stages of its tour.
John Armstrong: Dream & Reality
The Atkinson Gallery, Southport: 3 June – 3 September 2017
Penlee House Gallery & Museum, Penzance: 16 September – 18 November 2017
For more information, please visit The Atkinson Gallery and Penlee House Gallery websites.
