Dearest Vera by Austin Osman Spare

A Kaleidoscope of Facsimile Holograph Letters to his friend, the Poet and Painter Vera Wainwright

Asssembled by Kenneth and Steffi Grant

In his later creative life, Spare was sought out by artists and writers eager to receive insights of experience from the ‘Walworth Road Surrealist.’ And yet, there were very few indeed who became good friends. Vera Wainwright was one such friend. She arrived in Spare’s life as the clouds of war cast a long shadow over South London, and sought him out amid the debris of the blitz to offer her support and affection. Dearest Vera is an account of their friendship told by Spare himself, through the many letters sent to his new pupil.

Those familiar with Spare will find new insights to his life and theories on art, while newcomers will discover an eccentric and gifted artist sharing a lifetime’s experience with an eager pupil. Compiled by Kenneth and Steffi Grant, this kaleidoscope of correspondence is a rare treat, and a major resource for those seeking to better understand this complex and neglected genius.

Deluxe edition
Limited to ninety-three copies only, signed by Kenneth and Steffi Grant
Coloured plates, profusely illustrated, hand-bound in quarter purple goatskin, dust-jacket, slipcase.
4to, 270mm x 195mm
170+ pages
£140.00
SOLD OUT

Standard edition
Limited to 600 copies only
Coloured plates, profusely illustrated, silver-stamped cloth and dust-jacket
4to, 270mm x 195mm
170+ pages
£35.00

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