Published: 20/02/2024
The "Edward Bawden and Me" exhibition at the Higgins Bedford brings together work by Edward Bawden and work by forty two artists inspired by items in his archive. This archive or, as he called it, his "remains", was left by Bawden to the Higgins and is a treasure store of inspiration, versatility and creativity. The exhibition is curated by Bawden's friend, the illustrator and printmaker, Chris Brown, who has exhibited a varied range of his and other artists' work all inspired by Bawden.
As you go through
There are, of course, many more examples of the way Bawden has inspired others. What the exhibition succeeds in doing is bringing out the inventiveness, creativity and humour of Bawden. Somehow seeing Bawden's work alongside that of those he has inspired enhances your appreciation of what he produced over a long and varied career as illustrator, designer and artist. The contrast brings his work to life and encourages you to zoom in on the wonderful details of his art and the impressive creativity of those he has inspired. This is an exhibition to revisit and one where you can take your time to appreciate what is on show.