Surrealism of Angst

The first monograph devoted to British Surrealist Emmy Bridgwater

Surrealism of Angst explores the extraordinary work of Emmy Bridgwater (1906-1999), the British Surrealist artist who has long been unjustly overlooked. Born in Birmingham, Bridgwater became associated with the Birmingham Surrealists in 1937 and joined the London Surrealist Group three years later. Her haunting imagery--sinister birds, savage cats, scenes of mutilation and violation--forms a visual language of disquiet and emotional intensity. This book reclaims Bridgwater's place in the Surrealist canon, revealing a profound and often unsettling vision that is as innovative as it is affecting.

In this groundbreaking study, Silvano Levy draws on extensive research to reframe Bridgwater's role within Surrealism. Through detailed analysis of her visual and poetic work, he uncovers a depth of thought and feeling that challenges conventional narratives of Surrealism. Unflinching in its exploration of psychic trauma and inner unrest, Bridgwater's art emerges here as both visionary and unsettling. This publication not only reclaims a compelling artist from obscurity but also expands the scope of current scholarship on women in modern art.

Exhibition Schedule:

Midlands Art Centre
24 Oct 2026 - 10 Jan 2027

Published by Paul Holberton Publishing/Distributed by Yale University Press