Roger Hilton. The Figured Language of Thought

Roger Hilton (1911–75) was one of the pioneers of British abstract art.

Lavishly illustrated with works from all stages in Hilton’s career, this book provides a visually stunning view over the range of his output. By the early 1950s he had developed a fully abstract style. By the mid-1960s he alternated between figurative subjects, often depicting female nudes, and purely abstract works. His interest in the nude is especially evident in drawings.

In his heyday in the early 1960s he had gained international recognition and was chosen for the XXXII Venice Biennale, where his painting March 1963 won the UNESCO prize. However, despite being much admired as a painter, Hilton’s reputation was marred by bohemian excess and rudeness fuelled by alcohol which would eventually contribute to his early death.

The story of Hilton’s life and career is enlivened by numerous anecdotes recalling the vicissitudes of his personal relationships with other artists, such as Peter Lanyon, Terry Frost and Patrick Heron, all supported by the extensive first-hand evidence and personal memories of his widow, Rose.

Very good ex-library copy in dust jacket – some internal stamps to front and rear end papers.