Exhibition - Henry Michaux: The Mescaline Drawings (The Courtauld, London) (February 12 - June 2025)

"Untitled (1956)" by Henri Michaux. Private collection.

Opening soon... Henri Michaux: The Mescaline Drawings

The Courtauld, London (February 12 - June 2025)

https://courtauld.ac.uk/whats-on/exh-henri-michaux-mescaline-drawings/

In January 1955, as part of an experiment prompted by his publisher, the Franco-Belgian poet and visual artist Henri Michaux tried the psychedelic drug mescaline, to investigate the effect of this non-addictive drug on the creative act.

It transformed Michaux's artistic life - provoking an outpouring of writings and distinctive drawing during the 1950s and 60s as he sought a portal into the inner workings of the mind.

Opening soon in the Drawings Gallery, explore a selection of these later works, rarely seen in the UK, and experience his attempt to push the limits of what the essence of drawing really is.

 Included with Gallery Entry. Friends go free.

The programme of displays in the Gilbert and Ildiko Butler Drawings Gallery is generously supported by the International Music and Art Foundation, with additional support from James Bartos.

Henri Michaux (1899-1984), Untitled (Mescaline drawing), 1957, pen and black ink on paper. Promised gift by Linda Karshan in memory of her husband, Howard Karshan. On long-term loan to The Courtauld Gallery, London © ADAGP, Paris and DACS, London 2024.

Henri Michaux (1889-1984), Untitled, 1956, Graphite, black and coloured inks on paper, 184 x 131 mm. Private collection © ADAGP, Paris and DACS, London 2025.

(Thanks to The Courtauld for exhibit information & image)