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We inhabit the corrosive littoral of habit

A disintegrating face serves as a haunting metaphor for war in this 1940 surrealist masterpiece by James Gleeson, inviting you to explore the profound depths of Australian surrealism through this evocative work.

Explore James Timothy Gleeson’s surrealist paintings & poetry – dark landscapes, fleshy forms, & enigmatic visions. Australia's foremost surrealist artist.

Giclée / Art Print

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Total Price

$ 63

reproduction

We inhabit the corrosive littoral of habit

Giclée / Art Print

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Total Price

$ 63

Quick Facts

  • Artist: James Gleeson
  • Subject or theme: Corrosion of mind and world due to war
  • Dimensions: 40 x 51 cm
  • Influences: Salvador Dali
  • Year: 1940
  • Notable elements: Disintegrating face, split imagery
This painting is a seminal early work by Gleeson. It was exhibited in 1940 in the 2nd Contemporary Art Society exhibition where it received the joint award for the most outstanding work. Stylistically and iconographically indebted to Salvador Dali, the disintegrating face presents an emotionally charged metaphor for the corrosion of the world and the human mind as a result of war. Gleeson’s subsequent wartime paintings were to become more confronting in their use of imagery.James Gleeson, born in 1915, became Surrealism’s most prominent practitioner and advocate in Australia. In the late 1930s Gleeson studied at the East Sydney Technical College and the Sydney Teachers College where he had access to a large library of art books and journals, although he considered that ‘I was born a Surrealist.’ For Gleeson, the war and Surrealism were inextricably linked, and he later said: ‘For a while, especially during the war years, I did think of Surrealism as a revolutionary weapon. I accepted Breton’s contention that by utilising the subconscious one could arrive at a condition that held the rational mind in balance and perhaps prevent such disasters as war, indifference or fanaticism.’ (James Gleeson, interview with Lou Klepac, in James Gleeson: landscape out of nature, The Beagle Press, Sydney, 1987, p.14).Text © National Gallery of Victoria, Australia

Artist Biography

**early life and artistic pursuits**

james timothy gleeson, a prominent figure in australian art, was born on november 21, 1915. his artistic journey, marked by an innate curiosity for the human condition, led him to become one of australia's most celebrated surrealist painters and poets.

**artistic contributions and style**

gleeson's oeuvre is characterized by powerful enigmas of fleshy forms and dark landscapes, which delve into the human condition beyond visible reality. this unique approach has solidified his position as australia’s foremost surrealist painter.

**notable artworks and exhibitions**

* **the entombment**: a poignant example of gleeson's work, this piece showcases his mastery in capturing the essence of human emotions through surrealism. * **still-life by willem frederik van royen**: though not exclusively a gleeson piece, it represents the diverse range of artworks he influenced as part of the national gallery of australia's board.

**legacy and influence**

gleeson's impact on australian art is undeniable. his role in shaping the country's surrealist movement has been pivotal, inspiring generations of artists to explore beyond the boundaries of conventional art forms.

**conclusion**

james timothy gleeson's enigmatic world, though now a part of history, continues to influence the art landscape. his legacy as a surrealist painter and poet remains unparalleled in australian art history.
  • **key dates:** born - november 21, 1915; passed away - october 20, 2008
  • **national gallery of australia**: a institution gleeson was part of, showcasing his commitment to the country's artistic community.
museum name: national gallery of australia painting title: the entombment artist: james timothy gleeson
james timothy gleeson

james timothy gleeson

1915 - 2008 , Australia

Quick Facts

  • Artistic Movement Or Style: Cubism, Fauvism, Surrealism
  • Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist:
    • Walter Crane
    • Pre-Raphaelitism
  • Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
    • John Ruskin
    • Léon Bakst
    • Dante Gabriel Rossetti
  • Date Of Birth: July 7, 1887
  • Full Name: Marc Chagall
  • Nationality: Russian/French
  • Notable Artworks:
    • I and the Village
    • The Fiddler
    • Maternity
    • Circus Polka
  • Place Of Birth: Vitebsk (Belarus)
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