1889-1982 // 1894-1978
Brushes, Blooms, and Bonds
CEDRIC MORRIS & ARTHUR LETT-HAINES
Cedric // Floreat // 1933
A CREATIVE PARTNERSHIP
Cedric Morris and Arthur Lett-Haines, both influential figures in the British art scene, met on Armistice Night in 1918, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership in both love and art. Morris, born in Swansea in 1889, was known for his distinctive post-Impressionist style, while Lett-Haines, born in 1894, was one of Britain's first surrealists. Their meeting was serendipitous, and together they embarked on a journey that would leave a lasting impact on the art world.
Their early years were spent absorbing the vibrant art scene of post-war Paris, where they mingled with avant-garde artists and experimented with Cubism, Abstraction, Surrealism, and Futurism. This period of exploration and collaboration laid the foundation for their future endeavours, as they each honed their unique artistic voices while drawing inspiration from each other.
Arthur // Amusement // 1922
THE BIRTH OF BENTON END
In 1937, Morris and Lett-Haines founded the East Anglian School of Painting and Drawing, initially located in Dedham. However, after a fire in 1939, they relocated to Benton End, a large farmhouse in Hadleigh, Suffolk. Benton End became more than just a school; it was a creative sanctuary that fostered a sense of community and collaboration among artists, writers, and horticulturalists.
At Benton End, Morris and Lett-Haines cultivated an environment where creativity thrived, free from the constraints of traditional art education. They encouraged individuality and experimentation, allowing students to explore their artistic potential. This nurturing atmosphere attracted notable artists such as Lucian Freud and Maggi Hambling, who were profoundly influenced by their time at Benton End.
Cedric // Caeharris Post Office // 1922
Cedric // Margaret’s Pots // 1965
CREATIVITY TO THE FORE
The community at Benton End was characterised by its inclusivity and diversity. Morris and Lett-Haines believed that everyone had the potential to be creative, regardless of their background or experience. This ethos attracted a wide range of individuals, from amateur artists to established professionals, all of whom contributed to the vibrant artistic milieu.
The communal lifestyle at Benton End fostered collaboration and the exchange of ideas, making it a hub of artistic innovation. The scenic surroundings and Morris's extensive gardens provided endless inspiration for the residents, who often painted en plein air, capturing the beauty of the East Anglian landscape.
Arthur // Pure Abstraction Arabesque No 1 + 40
THE ARTISTIC LEGACY
Cedric Morris is perhaps best known for his flower paintings, particularly of irises, which reflect his dual passion for art and horticulture. His works are celebrated for their bold use of colour and dynamic compositions, which capture the essence of the natural world. Meanwhile, Lett-Haines's surrealist paintings, with their symbolic and experimental nature, added a unique dimension to the artistic output of Benton End.
Together, Morris and Lett-Haines created a body of work that is both diverse and distinctive, encompassing portraits, landscapes, still lifes, and surrealist imaginings. Their influence extended beyond their own art, as they mentored and inspired a generation of artists who would go on to make significant contributions to the British art scene.
Cedric // Lucien Freud // 1941
A LASTING IMPACT
The impact of Morris and Lett-Haines on the art world is profound and enduring. Through their work at Benton End, they challenged conventional notions of art education and created a space where creativity could flourish. Their emphasis on individuality and experimentation resonated with many artists, shaping the trajectory of modern British art.
The legacy of Benton End lives on, not only through the works of Morris and Lett-Haines but also through the artists they nurtured and inspired. The school's ethos of inclusivity and creativity continues to influence contemporary art education, highlighting the importance of providing spaces where artistic ideas can be freely exchanged and explored.
Cedric // Self-Portrait // c.1919
Arthur // Untitled
A CREATIVE SANCTUARY
Morris and Lett-Haines's partnership was a testament to the power of collaboration and community in the arts. Their vision for Benton End as a creative sanctuary has left an indelible mark on the art world, demonstrating the transformative potential of nurturing artistic talent in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Their unique approach to fostering creativity extended beyond traditional art education, encompassing a holistic lifestyle that celebrated nature, cuisine, and diverse forms of expression.
The legacy of Morris and Lett-Haines continues to inspire contemporary artists and art educators, encouraging them to create spaces that nurture creativity, foster collaboration, and push the boundaries of artistic expression.