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| Jeffrey Sherwin Photo: Richard Wilcocks |
Charlotte Gray writes:
Headingley library was packed out last night for Jeffrey
Sherwin’s talk introducing his new book: British Surrealism Opened Up. Having had surrealism pop up in my studies before,
but never having encountered the British side of the movement, I was interested
to find out more.
What struck me about Jeffrey’s delivery was the honesty with
which he talked about art. He wasn’t apprehensive about admitting that he
wasn’t an art historian, but just a man lucky enough to have been friends with
artists and who had collected their work. For a newcomer to the concept of British
surrealism, this honesty allowed for an engaging talk on a subject that could
have been quite intimidating.
He said that what appealed to him about specifically British
surrealist art was the placing of everyday elements of British life in a new
and interesting context, which immediately intrigued me. He then went on to show
photographs of several works that made up his collection and showcased this
turning of the familiar on its head.
As well as providing a background to the art itself, Jeffrey
made room in his talk for unexpected anecdotes about well-known artists. As a former
Leeds City Councillor and leading figure in the building of the Henry Moore
Institute, he had delightfully Yorkshire-based stories to tell about Moore
himself. He also turned out to be quite an authority on the history of Salvador
Dali’s moustache!
British Surrealism Opened Up was an altogether enjoyable evening that inspired me to find out more
about the art of the British Surrealist movement. Framed by jokes, anecdotes,
and plenty of pictures, the talk introduced a book that looks set to be an
enjoyable and accessible way in to a fascinating group of artists.
Click for BBC article: The retired doctor with a surrealist art treasure trove
Audience comments:
A most informative and amusing lecture
– clearly explained especially as Dr. Sherwin has had direct contact with many
of the artists. Please may we have another talk on surrealism next year?
A fascinating account of a unique
private collection – a collection of extremely rare British surrealist
painters. It was very interesting that Jeffrey took a shine to the quaintness
of surreal paintings and sculptures at the very start of that particular art movement.
As he says, he would not be able to afford his own collection today.
Informative, very passionate and
enthusiastic when discussing white male surrealists. Doug was vey good, very
professional and dealt with Jeffrey well.
Informative, delivered in an
entertaining manner. The lecture was accompanied by excellent slides of works
of art and of artists.
A pleasant wander through a collection
and its raison d’être.
A unique and personal view of
surrealism by a collector. Most interesting.
An excellent idea to have an expert
lecture on an aspect of art – makes a change from the many artistic
performances. Much appreciated.
Great to hear all the stories behind
the art especially the sordid ones.
A very entertaining evening – what a
remarkable man and collector. Learned a lot! Thanks.
Very engaging and entertaining
delivery. Worthwhile experience.
A most enjoyable presentation. Easy on
the eye and the ear.
Excellent talk. Interesting,
informative and amusing. Learned a lot.
A wonderful talk, Jeffrey. Thanks.
Interesting, witty, a real character.
Loved it!
Informative, witty, entertaining.
Very enjoyable evening.
Great stories!
Interesting
Excellent!
Excellent.
