Somewhat ironically the name of this exhibition begins with - Bijou - the archaic meaning being French for jewel, the works selected here most certainly are, while also being apt is its British definition: small and elegant. Many of the British artists represented here studied in Paris and were influenced by the French Avant Garde; Paule Vézelay, Stanley William Hayter, William Gear, Terry Frost, Henry Moore and Alan Davie. In contrast others remained in the UK exploring painting, printmaking and sculpture, these include; Bernard Meadows, Maurice Cockrill, John McLean, Prunella Clough, John Hoyland and John Hubbard. Nevertheless the influences from across the channel were constantly flowing over and shaping the art world. 



A primary work in the exhibition is an early screen print “Grey Forms” 1935 by Vézelay. Vézelay, previously Marjorie Watson-Williams, changed her name when she moved to Paris in the 1920s, wanting to conceal gender and nationality to fit into the male dominated artistic circles. She made her first abstract work in 1928 and then worked purely in the abstract mode, inspired by cubism, surrealism and constructivism.

Henry Moore studied in Paris in the 1920s. Having seen Notre Dame’s gargoyles, architectural features which bear a strong resemblance to his, much later created “Animal Head” 1956. The magnificent bronze wall hung sculpture is one of eight patinated in green and brown. In contrast Bernard Meadows’ sculpture “Pointing Figure with Child '' is most angelic and precious, with a highly polished bronze surface.

The smallest and earliest work is a lyrical drawing “Horses and Figures” 1930, by Hayter. Hayter a printmaker and painter, studied in Paris founding an experimental workshop -Atelier 17. He also played a central role in the 20th-century revival of the print as an independent art form. As part of the Bijou British modern exhibition we are also pleased to offer a range of prints produced by artists which worked with Advanced Graphics during the 20th century. We hope you enjoy this small jewel of an exhibition celebrating some exceptional British artists who have helped to shape modern British abstract art.