1917-2011
Myth, Magic, and Mystery: A Surrealist’s Vision
LEONORA CARRINGTON
The Giantess // 1953
EARLY LIFE AND INFLUENCES
Leonora Carrington was born on 6 April 1917 in Clayton-le-Woods, Lancashire, into a wealthy family. Her upbringing was steeped in privilege, but Carrington felt constrained by the expectations placed upon her. Her rebellious spirit led her to pursue art, defying her parents' wishes for a more conventional path.
Carrington's early education was marked by her expulsion from several schools, a testament to her nonconformist nature. Eventually, she found her place at the Chelsea School of Art and later at the Ozenfant Academy in London. These formative years were crucial in shaping her artistic vision, laying the groundwork for her future as a leading figure in the Surrealist movement.
Bird Baths // 1971
A SURREALIST JOURNEY
Carrington's introduction to the Surrealist movement came through her relationship with the German artist Max Ernst, whom she met in 1937. Their partnership was both romantic and artistic, with Ernst introducing Carrington to the vibrant Surrealist circles in Paris. Here, she mingled with luminaries such as Salvador Dalí and André Breton, immersing herself in the avant-garde scene.
Carrington's work during this period was characterised by fantastical imagery and dreamlike narratives, reflecting her fascination with myth and the subconscious. Her paintings, such as The Giantess and Self-Portrait (Inn of the Dawn Horse), showcased her unique ability to blend personal symbolism with Surrealist themes.
The Old Maids // 1947
Self Portrait // c.1942/3
LIFE IN EXILE
The outbreak of World War II forced Carrington into a period of exile. Ernst was arrested by the Nazis, and Carrington fled to Spain, where she suffered a mental breakdown. Her experiences in a Spanish asylum were harrowing, but they also fuelled her creativity. Carrington's subsequent escape to Mexico marked a new chapter in her life. In Mexico City, she found a community of like-minded artists, including Remedios Varo and Kati Horna.
This period of her life was marked by prolific artistic output and a deepening of her exploration of magical realism. Mexico's rich cultural tapestry provided endless inspiration for Carrington's work, allowing her to develop a distinct style that set her apart from her European contemporaries.
Are you Really Sirius? // 1953
THEMES AND TECHNIQUES
Carrington's art is renowned for its intricate detail and complex symbolism. Her paintings often depict fantastical creatures and dreamscapes, drawing on her interest in alchemy, mythology, and the occult. Carrington's use of vibrant colours and meticulous brushwork creates a sense of otherworldliness, inviting viewers into her imaginative universe.
Her work challenges traditional narratives, offering a feminist perspective that was ahead of its time. Carrington's ability to weave personal experiences with universal themes of transformation and liberation makes her art both deeply personal and broadly resonant. Her innovative approach to storytelling through visual art has left a lasting impact on the Surrealist movement and beyond.
Maja Del Tarot // 1965
LEGACY AND RECOGNITION
Despite facing numerous challenges throughout her life, Carrington's contributions to the art world have been increasingly recognised in recent years. Her work has been exhibited in major institutions worldwide, including the Tate and the Museum of Modern Art. Carrington's influence extends beyond her paintings; she was also a prolific writer, with works such as The Hearing Trumpet gaining critical acclaim.
Her role as a founding member of the women's liberation movement in Mexico further underscores her impact as a trailblazer for women's rights. Carrington's legacy is one of resilience and creativity, inspiring new generations of artists to push the boundaries of artistic expression.
And Then We Saw The Daughter of the Minotaur // 1953
The Offering // 1957
ENDURING INFLUENCE
Leonora Carrington's life and art continue to captivate audiences around the world. Her ability to transform personal adversity into creative triumph is a testament to her strength and vision. Carrington's work remains relevant today, offering insights into the complexities of identity, imagination, and the human condition.
As one of the last surviving members of the original Surrealist movement, her contributions have shaped the course of modern art. Carrington's story is a reminder of the transformative power of art and the enduring impact of a singular artistic voice.
Self-Portrait // 1937/8