A selection of three large-scale paintings by William Scott, a pioneer of abstract art in the UK, will be displayed in the West Country as part of an exhibition showcasing his work in Somerset.
The works, painted in the late 1950s during Scott's peak creative period, offer a glimpse into the artist's unique style. One piece, "Ochre Still Life", features everyday objects such as pots and pans, while another, "Black Painting", appears to be an abstract representation of stone walls. These pieces were chosen for their significance in illustrating Scott's development as an artist.
The exhibition, titled "Beauty in Plainness - William Scott in Somerset", is a testament to the artist's philosophy that beauty can be found in ordinary, everyday life. This phrase was one of Scott's most oft-repeated assertions throughout his career.
Scott's artistic journey took him from humble beginnings in the West Country to establishing himself as an influential figure in the UK art scene. One notable encounter during this time was with American artist Mark Rothko, whom he met while working on a large mural project in Northern Ireland. The two artists shared their passion for abstract expressionism and discussed their respective murals.
In 1959, Rothko visited Scott's home in Somerset, sparking an engaging conversation about art and the environment. However, it was during this visit that Rothko began to question the suitability of his artworks within a domestic setting. Feeling constrained by the exclusive atmosphere of the restaurant where he had commissioned the mural series, Rothko withdrew from the project.
Today, these paintings are being loaned to the Museum of Somerset for the first time in over 60 years, offering a rare opportunity to see Scott's work up close. The exhibition is set to run until February 2026 and will be accompanied by a talk about Scott's life and artistic journey at the museum on November 14th.
In this unique exhibition, "Beauty in Plainness - William Scott in Somerset" invites visitors to appreciate the beauty found in everyday objects and environments, much like Scott believed.
The works, painted in the late 1950s during Scott's peak creative period, offer a glimpse into the artist's unique style. One piece, "Ochre Still Life", features everyday objects such as pots and pans, while another, "Black Painting", appears to be an abstract representation of stone walls. These pieces were chosen for their significance in illustrating Scott's development as an artist.
The exhibition, titled "Beauty in Plainness - William Scott in Somerset", is a testament to the artist's philosophy that beauty can be found in ordinary, everyday life. This phrase was one of Scott's most oft-repeated assertions throughout his career.
Scott's artistic journey took him from humble beginnings in the West Country to establishing himself as an influential figure in the UK art scene. One notable encounter during this time was with American artist Mark Rothko, whom he met while working on a large mural project in Northern Ireland. The two artists shared their passion for abstract expressionism and discussed their respective murals.
In 1959, Rothko visited Scott's home in Somerset, sparking an engaging conversation about art and the environment. However, it was during this visit that Rothko began to question the suitability of his artworks within a domestic setting. Feeling constrained by the exclusive atmosphere of the restaurant where he had commissioned the mural series, Rothko withdrew from the project.
Today, these paintings are being loaned to the Museum of Somerset for the first time in over 60 years, offering a rare opportunity to see Scott's work up close. The exhibition is set to run until February 2026 and will be accompanied by a talk about Scott's life and artistic journey at the museum on November 14th.
In this unique exhibition, "Beauty in Plainness - William Scott in Somerset" invites visitors to appreciate the beauty found in everyday objects and environments, much like Scott believed.
you know what's wild? i was just reading about these amazing treehouses people are building in the woods near somerset 
and they're literally suspended from the branches of trees like they're in a fantasy novel 
i mean, can you imagine waking up in one of those every morning? 
it's like something out of a movie or a dream... anyway, back to scott's paintings 
, i love how his art is all about finding beauty in the mundane, but have you ever seen a treehouse? 
they're just so... cool 
. And Rothko visiting his place? That sounds like some fancy art drama to me 
. I mean, I get that people wanna learn about their history, but can't they find some modern art or something instead of dusting off old masterpieces? 
I'm so happy for art lovers out there! These paintings by William Scott are truly inspiring. I mean, who wouldn't want to see a beautiful still life with pots and pans or an abstract representation of stone walls? It's amazing how his work can make you appreciate the beauty in everyday life. The fact that he was friends with Mark Rothko is so cool too! 
Can't wait to check out this exhibition at the Museum of Somerset 
. And can we talk about how cool it is that Mark Rothko visited Scott's home in Somerset? That's like the ultimate art world crossover 
. Anyway, I'm sure this exhibition will be a hit with all the art fans out there. Just don't expect me to pay full price 
.
Still, to each their own, right?
He was like a pioneer of abstract art in the UK and his style is still super inspiring today 
It's like he took things we all see every day and turned them into something beautiful. And can you imagine meeting Mark Rothko, that's like having coffee with art royalty 
️! Anyway, I'm excited to check out this exhibition in Somerset, it sounds like a total must-see for art lovers 
. And can we talk about how lucky we are to have museums and art exhibitions around here? It's like they're saying "Hey, you guys might be stuck inside studying all day, but there's still beauty to discover out there!" 
The fact that Scott was able to capture those elements in such beauty is just incredible. And it's so cool to learn more about his journey and how he met Mark Rothko - their conversation must have been epic! 
I'm definitely going to check this exhibit out when it opens... can't wait to see the paintings up close 
An abstract art exhibition in Somerset? That sounds like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered! The fact that it's showcasing William Scott's work, an artist who was all about finding beauty in everyday life, is just amazing to me. I love how the exhibition highlights his unique style and how his artworks can transport you to another world. And let's talk about Mark Rothko's visit - what a fascinating encounter! 
! They're finally showing off some of these iconic pieces by William Scott, and I mean, have you seen his stuff? It's like he took all that "ordinary" stuff and turned it into art. I love how they chose pieces like "Ochre Still Life" - I mean, who wouldn't want to look at pots and pans on a wall? 
And "Black Painting"? That thing is like a piece of abstract masterclass! But you know what really gets me excited? The fact that Mark Rothko was here, vibing with Scott about art and the environment. It's like they were two peas in a pod, bro. Anyway, if you're in Somerset anytime soon, do yourself a favor and check out this exhibit. It's gonna be a game-changer!
. you know what's wild? people think art has to be all fancy & expensive, but scott proved us wrong with his "beauty in plainness" philosophy 
. anyway, gotta get to this exhibit ASAP! 