Reclusive artist to show ‘extraordinary’ work in UK for first time in decades

What is the importance of this exhibition?

This exhibition titled “Cosmos of Dreams” is the first big exhibition of Orlik’s dream paintings in more than 50 years. Curators describe his work as “amazingly good” and argue that he should be considered one of the greats. This exhibition allows the public to see Orlik’s extraordinary and surrealist-influenced paintings that have remained hidden and unseen for decades.

What challenges has Orlik faced?

In 2022, Orlik suffered a severe stroke that paralyzed his right side and deprived him of the ability to paint. Unfortunately, while he was in the hospital, the housing association evicted him and more than 200 of his paintings went missing. The loss has really hurt the artist and the police and a local representative are now investigating the case.

How is the exhibition held?

The exhibition is organized by Winsor Birch, a Wiltshire fine art company, and curated by Grant Ford, an image specialist who has worked in the art world for 38 years. Ford says it’s a “fair arrangement” in which Orlik will receive a large portion of the sale, which costs between £3,000 and £40,000 per painting. The exhibition will first be held at Maas Gallery in London from August 9 to 20 and then moved to Marlborough from August 23 to September 6.

However, a serious stroke in 2022 paralysed Orlik’s right side, robbing him of the ability to paint and leading to a further tragedy: while he was in hospital, his housing association evicted him and more than 200 of his paintings went missing.