Introduction to Henry Orlik’s Art
A withdrawn artist from Swindon, Henry Orlik, has gained significant attention in the art world after his work earned over £1.6 million from just two British shows last year. Now, he has his own exhibition in New York, showcasing his surrealistic paintings from the 1980s.
The Road to New York
Orlik’s art dealer, Grant Ford, sent huge canvases of his work to the Kate Oh Gallery in New York. One of the paintings was sold for $185,000 before the show even opened. Ford described the experience as "pretty exciting" and mentioned that surrealism is currently popular in the art world, especially with the movement’s 100th anniversary last year.
Orlik’s Life and Art
Henry Orlik, 78, is in poor health and can no longer paint. He spent time in New York in the 1970s and 80s, where he was invited by the wife of famous actor James Coburn to California before moving to New York. Orlik’s work was once displayed next to Salvador Dali’s, but he became withdrawn and lived alone in a small apartment with stacks of his paintings. People rarely saw his work, and it wasn’t until recently that his art gained recognition.
The Exhibition
The New York exhibition features some of Orlik’s most fascinating paintings, including "Fight-off cloud scratch" and "The Eye in New York," which resembles the eye of Sauron looking down on the city. Ford explained that Orlik’s time in New York had a significant influence on his work, and the exhibition showcases this. The team worked tirelessly to put the exhibition together, overcoming challenges such as obtaining permission, high rent, and expensive shipping.
Orlik’s Legacy
Unfortunately, Orlik can no longer use his painting hand, and there is only a limited selection of his pictures left. Once they’re sold, they’ll be gone forever. Ford, who heads a small gallery in Marlborough, is working to ensure Orlik’s legacy lives on through his art. The exhibition in New York is a significant step in recognizing Orlik’s contribution to the art world, and his work continues to captivate audiences with its unique surrealistic style.
