Step into the enchanting realm of Marion Adnams, a surrealist artist whose work often goes unnoticed. In this article, we invite you to explore the captivating and dream-like paintings of Adnams, as well as her fascinating life story. Discover the recently dedicated gallery space at Derby Museums, which houses the largest collection of Adnams' work in the UK. Join us on a journey through the perplexing and bursty world of this remarkable artist.

Marion Adnams: A Forgotten Surrealist

Explore the life and artistic journey of Marion Adnams, a surrealist painter who remained relatively unknown in her own hometown.

Marion Adnams, born in Derby in 1898, was a surrealist artist whose unique and dream-like visions often went unnoticed in her own home area. Despite being robbed of her sight and forced to give up painting in 1968, Adnams left behind a remarkable body of work that continues to captivate art enthusiasts.

Although she exhibited her paintings in London and regional art galleries, Adnams remained relatively unknown in Derby. It was only recently that Derby Museums dedicated a permanent gallery space to showcase the largest collection of Adnams' work in the UK.

Step into the world of Marion Adnams and discover the enchanting and mysterious paintings that earned her a place in the surrealist movement.

Into the Enchanted Country: Adnams' Artistic Process

Uncover the artistic process of Marion Adnams as she transformed ordinary objects into surreal and mysterious creations.

Marion Adnams' artistic process was a unique journey that began with her encounters with natural objects during walks or visits to the museum. She would closely study these objects, making numerous drawings, before incorporating them into her paintings.

Resurrecting the Inanimate

As Adnams played with the scale and setting of these objects, they took on a surreal and mysterious life of their own. She described this transformation as a sort of resurrection of dead and inanimate objects, breathing new life into them through her art.

Witness the captivating process behind Adnams' surreal visions and explore the enchanting country she created through her paintings.

Adnams' Influence and Legacy

Discover how Marion Adnams' unique artwork continues to inspire artists and designers in the present day.

Marion Adnams' work may have been overlooked during her lifetime, but her influence lives on. Today, her captivating and dream-like paintings continue to inspire artists and designers, such as celebrity milliner Stephen Jones.

From Dreams to Fashion

Stephen Jones drew inspiration from Adnams' work for his collection entitled 'Drifting and Dreaming,' featuring a series of hats showcased at Ascot in 2011. Adnams' ability to transport viewers into an enchanted world resonates with artists across different mediums.

Explore the lasting legacy of Marion Adnams and how her art continues to captivate and inspire the creative world.