Ithell Colquhoun: The Alchemist of Surrealism

Ithell Colquhoun (1906–1988) was a visionary artist who stood between surrealism and mysticism. Known for her profound exploration of the unconscious and her dedication to esoteric studies, Colquhoun’s legacy is enigmatic and fascinating.

Colquhoun’s Foundations

Born in India to British parents, Colquhoun’s early life was shaped by exposure to diverse cultures. Moving to England, she studied at the Slade School of Fine Art and began to establish her practice. During the 1930s, she aligned herself with the surrealist movement, captivated by its focus on dreamscapes, automatic drawing, and the subconscious. Works like “Scylla” (1938) exemplify this period, combining vivid colours and abstract forms that evoke both natural landscapes and human anatomy.

However, Colquhoun’s growing interest in mysticism, alchemy, and the occult set her apart. Her refusal to limit her creative freedom led to a split with the British Surrealist Group in 1940, a departure that opened new doors for her artistry.

Mysticism and the Occult

Colquhoun was immersed in esoteric traditions. She studied Kabbalah, alchemy, Celtic mythology, and sacred geometry, using these ancient systems as the foundation for her work. Paintings like “The Pine Family” (1940) reveal her ability to blend esoteric symbols with surrealist techniques, creating art that speaks to both the conscious and unconscious mind.

In addition to painting, Colquhoun was a talented poet, essayist, and playwright. Her written works complement her visual art, offering insights into her spiritual worldview. She used techniques like automatism not only in her paintings but also in her writing.

As a member of several occult organisations, including the Golden Dawn, Colquhoun’s writings often explored spiritual and philosophical themes. Her 1957 book, The Living Stones: Cornwall, is a blend of travelogue and mystical reflection, capturing her love for Cornwall’s rugged landscapes and their connection to Celtic heritage.

Despite being overlooked for much of the 20th century, Colquhoun’s work is now undergoing a revival. Currently showing at Tate St Ives, Ithell Colquhoun: Between Worlds is the largest exhibition of her work to date, showcasing over 200 pieces, many never before seen.

Colquhoun’s art feels more relevant than ever today, where the interplay of art, spirituality, and identity is being re-examined. Her work invites us to question boundaries, whether between the physical and the metaphysical, or the conscious and the unconscious.

The act of painting, therefore, becomes an act of divination that connects the artist to natural and spiritual forces. Automatic paintings reveal the interconnectedness of the inner and outer worlds, the subject and the object, the I and the Other.

Ithell Colquhoun, source The Art Story.org

Inspired?

Take a look at our courses inspired by the wonderful world of Ithell Colquhoun and discover exercises and techniques developed by her and similar artists.

Magical Landscapes

28 Apr – 1 May | £495
Kate Southworth + Greg Humphries

Enter the magical landscapes of West Penwith and the landscape of the soul guided by two inspirational tutors exploring the work of Ithell Colquhuon, Bryan Wynter and Hilma af Klint.

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The Art of The Sun + The Moon

Online | £55
Greg Humphries

Explore the process of creating art inspired by the sun and moon through techniques guided by abstraction, surrealism and symbolism. Study works by artists such as Ithell Colquhoun, Pamela Colman-Smith and Joan Miro.

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Introduction to Calendrical Art

Online | £20
Kate Southworth

A chance to find out more about our year long ‘Calendrical Art’ course, creating in tune with the seasons. This is a taster session so you can decide if you would like to join the full year long course.

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Calendrical Art

Online | £195
Kate Southworth

Explore artists whose work addresses seasonal change, rituals and intuitive processes including Ithell Colquhoun, Hilma af Klint, Shirazeh Houshiary, Leonora Carrington and Georgiana Houghton. 

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