40 years later, rediscovered Orlik works return to New York City
Winsor Birch is delighted to announce a landmark exhibition of Henry Orlik’s 'American' paintings and drawings in New York this June. Not seen in public for decades, the exhibition will be a unique opportunity to experience the magic and mysticism of Orlik's work in the iconic city that inspired them. After significant shows in London in the 1970s, including exhibiting alongside Salvador Dalí, René Magritte and Max Ernst, Orlik turned his back on the commercial art world. He looked to America for a new chapter of artistic inspiration, living in California and then New York for five years between 1980-85. While he struggled for recognition and lived a threadbare existence, he witnessed and recorded all aspects of the vibrant city from its underbelly to soaring skyscrapers. The impact on his art was dramatic, and his visionary response re-imagines the great Metropolis as a dynamic spiritual cosmos interlaced with quanta. The works created represent some of the most extraordinary and profound portrayals of the city in the 20th century. This will be the most significant exhibition of Henry Orlik's work to date.
The full list of works will be published on 2 June and available to buy from 17 June 2025.
