INNOVATION AND CREATIVE FREEDOM

Explore the unconscious and challenge conventions, through art

Roland Penrose, a central figure in British Surrealism, developed a unique style that often-involved collage techniques that focused on imagery and symbolism. Using materials such as tourist postcards of famous landmarks, he created surreal compositions that reimagined familiar objects, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy, a key theme of Surrealism. Influenced by European Surrealists such as Max Ernst and the Cubist techniques of Georges Braque, Penrose fused experimentation, aesthetics and conceptual depth in his work. In addition to his art, he actively promoted Surrealism through exhibitions and public engagement, leaving a lasting impact on modern art in the United Kingdom. Your guide, known for his artistic insights, meets you on the south bank of the River Thames. As you gaze at the London Eye reflected in his eyes, he promises you a breathtaking perspective of the city and Penrose’s influence. “This Ferris wheel,” he says, “offers a 30-minute journey through art, history and modernity; just enough time to tell you about a British artist, a surrealist known for his innovative collages. Among his distinctive methods, he used postcards, maps, watercolour paintings and other found materials to create unique compositions. He combined postcards depicting the Eiffel Tower and the Sacré-Cœur with techniques such as decalcomania, creating a work that evoked a sense of travel and freedom. He often subverted the traditional meaning of the materials he used, transforming them into surreal creatures or landscapes.”

Roland Penrose, a central figure in British surrealism, was born in London in 1900 and initially pursued architecture at Queens’ College, Cambridge before discovering his passion for painting. In France, he befriended artists like Pablo Picasso and Max Ernst, who deeply influenced his work. Penrose was pivotal in promoting modern art in the UK, organizing the first International Surrealist Exhibition in 1936 and co-founding the Institute of Contemporary Arts in 1947. He also authored biographies on Picasso and Joan Miró. During World War II, he taught camouflage techniques to the British Army. Married to photographer Lee Miller, with whom he had a son, Antony, Penrose remained dedicated to contemporary art until his death in 1984, leaving a lasting impact. Your guide points out iconic landmarks like Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, and Buckingham Palace, and even suggests envisioning Windsor Castle 40 km away. These symbols of British heritage enhance your journey, inspiring additions to your travel diary. “In addition to his creative use of found materials, Penrose experimented with decalcomania, a technique that involved applying paint and then pressing it between two surfaces to create random, organic patterns, to give his work a spontaneous and abstract feel.”

Roland Penrose stood out with emblematic works that embodied his surrealist style, contributing significantly to 20th-century art. Among his masterpieces is “Le Grand Jour,” a “collage painting” combining surrealist elements with trompe-l’œil techniques, challenging conventions with illusion and symbolism. Another notable work, “Frottage,” merges Max Ernst’s frottage technique with cubist and surrealist influences, highlighting Penrose’s versatility and avant-garde vision. Later, “House the Light-house” reflects his artistic evolution and dedication to innovation. As a collector, he supported artists like Picasso, Miró, and Ernst, helping popularize surrealism and cubism in the UK. Your guide points to landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and The Shard, Renzo Piano’s iconic skyscraper, while Tower Bridge, a world-renowned symbol, spans the Thames, enriching your artistic journey. “One of Roland Penrose’s most famous collages is ‘Elephant Bird’ from 1938,” the left-hander mentions. Seeing you with anger, he continues. “This work represents a giant bird composed of a complex accumulation of found objects and images, including postcards of the Eiffel Tower and the Sacré-Cœur in Paris. These elements evoke a sense of travel and freedom, in contrast to the tensions of the impending Second World War.”

Roland Penrose had a strong bond with iconic London locations that were key to his personal life and artistic career. Hampstead, in North London, was especially significant—not only as his neighborhood but as a vibrant hub for the avant-garde art scene. This creative community fostered interactions among artists, writers, and thinkers, offering Penrose inspiration through dialogues with figures like Barbara Hepworth and Henry Moore, pivotal in modern British art. Hampstead was more than a residence; it was a nexus for innovation, encouraging artistic experimentation and the exploration of new concepts that influenced Penrose’s surrealist works. In your diary, you record: “Penrose and his wife, Lee Miller, formed one of the most influential artistic couples of the 20th century. Their relationship began long-distance, but she later joined him in London. Her artistic perspective greatly influenced Penrose. Their home, Farley Farm House in Sussex, became a creative hub and a gathering place for artists and intellectuals.”

Roland Penrose lived at 21 Downshire Hill, Hampstead, alongside photographer and future wife Lee Miller. Their home served as both a residence and a gathering place for influential artists, writers, and intellectuals. Hampstead’s bohemian atmosphere and artistic vibrancy provided Penrose with the perfect setting to develop his surrealist ideas. Renowned figures like Man Ray and André Breton often visited the house, participating in discussions and collaborations across artistic disciplines. One notable moment from his time at Downshire Hill was the installation of Henry Moore’s sculpture, ‘Mother and Child,’ in the front garden—an act that stirred neighborhood debates but exemplified Penrose’s commitment to integrating art into daily life and challenging conventions. Hampstead, with its proximity to natural landscapes like Hampstead Heath and the presence of modernist artists such as Barbara Hepworth and Henry Moore, became a major source of inspiration for Penrose’s work and artistic growth.

“Behind the Institute of Contemporary Arts lies Cork Street in Mayfair, renowned for its artistic and cultural connections. It was here that Roland Penrose founded the London Gallery, exhibiting works by artists such as Man Ray and Yves Tanguy and becoming a key hub for surrealism in the UK.” Reflecting on this pivotal position in Penrose’s career, it is clear how a single London street achieved global recognition. “With his innovative vision, Penrose transformed the London Gallery into a central place for surrealism and modern art, showcasing works by Picasso, Miró, Ernst and Duchamp and connecting British audiences with global avant-garde movements.” Your left-handed guide puts his finger on the artist he is talking about, points with his left hand to the London Gallery and continues talking to you. “Penrose redefined artistic conventions and encouraged cultural debates. For him, the gallery symbolized the transformative power of art. He positioned London as a vital cultural center, bringing surrealism and modern art to the public.”

“Look… right in front of you is a space with experimental visual arts.” Your guide explains that Roland Penrose was instrumental in founding the Institute of Contemporary Arts, a symbol of avant-garde and innovation in the UK. Originally located on Dover Street, the ICA aimed to bring together creatives from all disciplines to exchange ideas and promote new forms of expression. Penrose envisioned it as a laboratory that would merge visual arts with literature, music, dance and film. The institute became a hub for fuelling revolutionary ideas. Inspired by the view near the London Eye, you and your guide discuss dining options. He suggests Skylon for its extensive wine list, views of the Thames and modern British cuisine or Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar for its elegant setting and renowned steaks. If you choose the latter, you’ll start with beef tartare and grilled tiger prawns. Reflecting on the meal, you note: “Dinner on the Thames with a view of the London Eye. He chose a steak aged in a Himalayan salt room, and for me, he recommended butternut squash with caramelized walnuts and sage.”

Walking to the Premier Inn London, near the London Eye, you part ways with tomorrow’s plans: Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre for you and the Waterloo Graffiti Tunnel for him. As he finishes his Toscano cigar, the left-handed man describes the tunnel’s vibrancy since Banksy’s 2008 Cans Festival, highlighting its appeal as a hub for global street artists and its ever-evolving graffiti. A light breeze carries the warm, spicy aroma of the cigar. Then, as you say goodnight in the lift, you’re confident you’ll meet again. Surprisingly, he suggests meeting you at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre for tomorrow, but on one condition. Before you can respond, he suggests an immediate walk to see some high-quality art. You agree and head towards Leake Street, where, although the litter remains visible, you’re surrounded by colourful murals, break dancers and an energetic atmosphere. Back at the hotel, you reflect and add to your diary: “Leake Street offers freedom of expression, an ever-changing collage of images and emotions. A truly unusual and wonderful experience away from the crowds. I wonder what Roland Penrose would have thought of it.”

 

Roland Penrose’s enigmatic, poetic and often humorous surrealist collage style, known for his use of picture postcards and unexpected combinations of mixed media influenced by Surrealism, finds a new echo in Meeting Benches with Dastilige Nevante’s digital reinterpretation, set to the soundtrack “Time” by FiftySounds. This reinterpretation highlights how the humor, irony and visual poetry inherent in Penrose’s work continue to inspire, transforming mundane objects into evocative and mysterious creations.