Sven Berlin [1911–1999] – Romantic Bohemian Artist
Perhaps one of the most important and overlooked artists of the post-war years, Sven Berlin was a Romantic Bohemian whose highly personal drawings offer a unique glimpse into his world. An influential yet marginalised figure in modern British art, his work is represented in the collections of The Tate, V&A, and David Bowie.
Field System presents a rare opportunity to view and acquire his beautiful line drawings which convey an easiness of execution and a confidence of hand that few artists achieve. Please join us to celebrate the event on Thursday 12 February 6-8pm, with a short introduction to the artist and his work presented at 6.30pm by Gavin Dunbar. No need to book all very welcome.
A Brief Biography
Sven Berlin [1911–1999] was an artist, writer, and poet, and a central figure in the development of modern art in St Ives during its most creative period. Rejecting abstraction and the highly competitive mid-twentieth century art world, he chose instead to live among the New Forest Romany Gypsy community, where his empathy with nature deeply informed his life and work.
About Gavin Dunbar
Gavin Dunbar is an art historian, collector, and educator based in Devon, with a passion for artists and artisans who have been forgotten or marginalised—especially Bohemian figures like Sven Berlin. Gavin sees himself as a custodian and enabler, rescuing collections and lone drawings and sharing these treasures with the public. For him, discovering these works is a deeply spiritual and exhilarating experience, allowing others to appreciate and enjoy the art he uncovers.
You may also be interested to in Dr Martin Shaw’s talk, Mythic Spirit in the Life and Work of Sven Berlin on Friday 20th February. Tickets are available HERE
Writer and painter Martin Shaw will be talking about Sven Berlin's work and its placement within a re-emerging sense of Romantic tradition. What is the Blakeian attempt Berlin is making to re-enchant the world? Why does it speak to us so strongly in modernity?
