Exhibition
Jean Dubuffet – Brutal Beauty
Organised by Barbican Centre
IMPORTANT: This is a paid exhibition. Buy your ticket here
An exhibition celebrating French artist Jean Dubuffet (1901-1985), one of the most singular and provocative voices in postwar modern art.
Brutal Beauty champions Dubuffet’s rebellious philosophy. Railing against conventional ideas of beauty, he tried to capture the poetry of everyday life in a gritty, more authentic way. This is the first major survey of his work in the UK for over 50 years, showcasing four decades of his career, from early portraits and fantastical statues, to butterfly assemblages and giant colourful canvases. Dubuffet endlessly experimented and was clear on his purpose:
Alongside his own work, the exhibition features works from Dubuffet’s collection of Art Brut (a phrase he coined, which translates literally as ‘raw art’). Acquired throughout his life, these works, and the artists that created them, profoundly impacted his approach to the making and meaning of art.
Exhibition sponsored by Sotheby’s with additional support from Waddington Custot and Bauwerk
A few things to consider before your visit:
- We currently have a reduced capacity and timed entry slots. All visitors, including Barbican Members, must book tickets online in advance.
- Please note that from the 17 May two households will be able to visit together in a group of up to six (subject to review).
- Our cloakrooms are currently closed so avoid bringing large bags with you. Long umbrellas will not be allowed in the gallery.