John Tunnard – The Brian Whitton Collection: Their Lives and Work
John Tunnard occupies a vital yet often understated position within British modernism. His work moves fluidly between abstraction, Surrealism and landscape, while resisting easy categorisation. Intellectual yet instinctive, modern yet rooted in the natural world, his paintings create a compelling visual language that feels increasingly resonant in today’s shifting cultural landscape. As interest in Surrealism continues to grow, Tunnard’s imaginative and psychologically charged works speak with renewed clarity to contemporary audiences.
This remarkable collection, assembled over a lifetime by Professor Brian Whitton, represents the most comprehensive private holding of works by John Tunnard ever to come to market. Scholarly in its scope and deeply personal in its formation, the collection traces the full arc of Tunnard’s artistic development, from early experimentation to mature, fully realised compositions.
A London viewing will take place at Hay Hill, Mayfair, strictly by appointment, from Thursday 9th April to Sunday 12th April. For appointment availability contact joseph@andersonandgarland.com.
Viewing times
Tues 21/04/26 10am - 3pm
Wed 22/04/26 10am - 3pm
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Lot 6 - § John Tunnard - Composition with wasp | oil on gesso board
Lot 8 - § John Tunnard - Workings | oil on gesso-prepared board
Lot 19 - § John Tunnard - Ray | oil and wax crayon on prepared board
Lot 25 - § John Tunnard - The False Mocha Comes True | mixed media
Lot 29 - § John Tunnard - Vision (of Moon Craters) | mixed media
