24 October 2026 – 11 April 2027
Porthmeor Beach St Ives Cornwall TR26 1TG
Wilhelmina Barns-Graham
 
This major retrospective exhibition is the first to chart the full length of Wilhelmina Barns-Graham’s incredible career, covering eight decades.

One of the most innovative British artists of the 20th century, Barns-Graham HRSA communicated her physical, emotional and spiritual responses to the world around her through her work. This was particularly true of her deep connection with the landscapes of Cornwall, Scotland and continental Europe. She carved out a vibrant style of abstract painting known for its energetic rhythms and bold colour.

Featuring over 170 paintings, drawings, prints and archive materials, the exhibition will trace Barns-Graham’s development from her student days at the Edinburgh College of Art and early years in St Ives, where she found her place in a lively community of painters and sculptors, through to her later years working between Cornwall and Scotland. It concludes with paintings from her Scorpio series, created in her final two decades. She described her work from this time as a celebration of life, and of joy.
 
The exhibition will include Glacier Crystal, Grindelwald, on loan from the Wilhelmina Barns-Graham Trust.

Supported by Tate Members
 
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Banner image: New Building © Tate (Kirstin Prisk)

  • About Tate St Ives
    Tate St Ives, © Tate (Kirstin Prisk)

    About Tate St Ives

    Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Tate St Ives showcases work by artists including Barbara Hepworth, Marlow Moss, Naum Gabo and Patrick Heron, whose captivating works have brought international attention to St Ives and West Cornwall. Alongside displays from the Tate collection, the gallery presents modern and contemporary art from around the world through a dynamic exhibitions programme.