Artist Biography – Joe Tilson R.A. (1928–2023)
Joe Tilson was a leading figure in British Pop Art, known for his vibrant prints, constructed reliefs, and works that merged language, symbolism, and materiality. Born in London in 1928, Tilson studied at St Martin’s School of Art (1949–1952) and the Royal College of Art (1952–1955), where he was a contemporary of David Hockney, R.B. Kitaj, and Peter Blake.
He was deeply influenced by Italian art and culture, moving to Tuscany in the 1970s. His later works, including Earth Mantra, reflect his growing interest in mysticism, nature, and classical mythology.
Exhibitions and Collections
Joe Tilson’s work has been widely exhibited in major galleries and institutions, including:
Tate Britain, London
Victoria and Albert Museum, London
The British Museum, London
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), New York
Centre Pompidou, Paris
His longstanding relationship with Waddington Galleries, London, reinforced his reputation as a significant figure in British art.