A remarkable trove of artworks by the celebrated author Iris Murdoch—previously concealed in a secret attic room—has been brought to light, showcasing her unique vision and creativity during a tumultuous period in history. The exhibition, which opens this Friday, features the only known self-portrait of the Booker Prize-winning novelist, alongside evocative surrealist landscapes and intimate sketches that reveal a new dimension to her artistic identity.
A Treasure Trove of Art
For years, the undiscovered artworks languished in obscurity, hidden behind a concealed door in the attic of Murdoch’s former residence in North Oxford. This hidden chamber, described as an “inner sanctum,” was unearthed by Dr Miles Leeson, director of the Iris Murdoch Research Centre at the University of Chichester, who was invited to explore the property following the passing of Audi Bayley, the second wife of Murdoch’s late husband, John Bayley.
“The room was inaccessible,” Leeson explained, hinting at the decades of dust that had settled on Murdoch’s creations. “It was like a time capsule, full of personal effects and private items.” Among the treasures discovered were over 80 previously unknown artworks, painted during the early years of the Second World War when Murdoch was studying at Oxford.
The Art of Self-Discovery
The newly revealed self-portrait, dated 7 January 1941, provides a profound insight into how the young Murdoch perceived herself at just 21 years old. “It’s a portrait of someone who is clearly a deep and expressive thinker,” Leeson remarked, highlighting the depth of character captured in the piece.
In addition to her self-portrait, the exhibition includes four surrealist landscapes and a series of sketches depicting female nudes, which are particularly noteworthy given Murdoch’s personal journey. Having recognised her bisexuality at the age of 15, these drawings reflect her evolving relationship with her identity and sexual expression. “There is a sexual frisson in the drawings of female nudes,” Leeson noted, suggesting that they echo the yearning found in her early poetry dedicated to women she admired.
The Influence of War and Surrealism
Murdoch’s artistic output during this formative period was deeply influenced by the socio-political climate of the time. As the shadows of war loomed, her surrealist works, created between 1939 and 1941, conveyed a sense of despair and anxiety that resonated with the collective consciousness of a nation on the brink of chaos. “These paintings capture the breakdown of society and reflect on the destruction of European culture,” Leeson stated, emphasising the philosophical depth embedded in her art.
The connection between Murdoch’s paintings and her later literary works is striking. Her novels often explore themes of reality and self-absorption, much like the surrealist canvases that challenge viewers to reconsider their perceptions. “The Black Prince and The Sea, The Sea illustrate her ability to skew reality, mirroring the complexities of human existence,” Leeson explained.
A Groundbreaking Exhibition
The newly uncovered artworks will be showcased at the University of Chichester Library until 10 December, as part of the exhibition titled *Iris Murdoch Amongst the Artists*. This marks the first time that Murdoch’s visual artistry will be celebrated in its own right, alongside works by British artists who contributed to her book covers.
This exhibition presents an opportunity not just to appreciate Murdoch’s contributions as a novelist, but also to recognise her as a multifaceted artist. “These artworks show her engaging with her world in new light, displaying an aspect of Murdoch that was hitherto hidden,” Leeson asserted.
Why it Matters
The unveiling of Iris Murdoch’s hidden artworks offers a profound insight into the complexities of her character and creative genius. As we reflect on her contributions to literature and art, this exhibition challenges us to reconsider the boundaries between different forms of expression. It invites contemporary audiences to explore the intricate layers of identity, sexuality, and societal reflection embedded within her work, ensuring that Murdoch’s legacy resonates powerfully in the 21st century.
