ELIEEN AGAR
"I have spent my whole life in revolt against convention, trying to bring colour and light and a sense of the mysterious to daily existence"
Eileen Agar (1899–1991) was a pioneering artist who blurred the lines between reality and imagination, crafting a unique visual language that cemented her as one of the foremost figures in British Surrealism. Born in Buenos Aires to a Scottish father and an American mother, Agar's early years were filled with wonder, travel, and artistic curiosity. Her lifelong pursuit of creative expression would lead her from the halls of London’s prestigious art schools to the vibrant avant-garde circles of Paris and beyond.
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Early Years and Artistic Awakening
Agar's artistic journey began in earnest at the Byam Shaw School of Art, though she soon found its rigid approach stifling. Seeking a more dynamic education, she studied under Leon Underwood and later at the Slade School of Fine Art, where she was exposed to a rich tapestry of influences, including the emerging surrealist movement. Rejecting the conventional expectations of her privileged upbringing, she sought artistic and personal freedom, a spirit that would define her career.
Surrealist Explorations and Breakthrough
The 1930s saw Agar’s art flourish as she embraced the dreamlike aesthetics of Surrealism. A transformative summer in Swanage with Paul Nash ignited her fascination with found objects and organic forms, leading to some of her most celebrated works. She played a key role in the landmark 1936 London International Surrealist Exhibition, standing alongside visionaries like Salvador Dalí and Max Ernst. Her work—imbued with wit, sensuality, and a profound connection to nature—challenged artistic conventions and celebrated the subconscious.
A Multifaceted Creator
Agar’s artistic repertoire spanned painting, photography, collage, and sculpture. She experimented with automatic techniques, created surreal assemblages, and infused her work with poetic spontaneity. One of her most iconic pieces, The Angel of Anarchy, a richly textured sculpture of a blindfolded head, embodies her ability to transform everyday materials into enigmatic, evocative art.
Later Years and Enduring Influence
Despite the disruptions of World War II, Agar’s creativity never waned. She continued to exhibit internationally, exploring new styles such as Tachisme while staying true to her surrealist roots. In 1988, she published her memoir, A Look At My Life, offering an intimate glimpse into her extraordinary artistic odyssey. In 1990, she was elected as a Royal Academician, a testament to her lasting impact on British art.
Eileen Agar’s legacy endures through her works held in major institutions, including Tate Britain and the Government Art Collection. Her fearless exploration of the subconscious, her bold defiance of convention, and her visionary approach to art continue to inspire generations of artists and art lovers alike. In a world that often demands order, Agar reveled in chaos and beauty, proving that imagination knows no bounds.
