imperial war museums

Through more than 170 artworks, spanning over 150 artists, Visions of War charts the manifold engagement between artists, art movements and a century-plus of conflict since 1914. Its richly illustrated pages uncover the intricate history of IWM’s art collection, from its inception during the First World War to reflecting the complexities of conflict today.

This collection of remarkable artworks illuminates some of IWM’s most powerful stories, from the heartfelt statement of William Orpen’s To the Unknown British Soldier in France to the Carline brothers’ ground-breaking aerial paintings. Here is art as propaganda, art as record and art as remembrance.

Artists featured include Paul Nash, CRW Nevinson, William Orpen, David Bomberg, Anna Airy, John Singer Sargent, Walter Sickert, Wyndham Lewis, Eric Ravilious, Laura Knight, Henry Moore, Evelyn Dunbar, Linda Kitson, Peter Kennard, Gilbert & George, Colin Self, William Crozier, Steve McQueen, Rosalind Nashashibi, Omer Fast and Coco Fusco.

Claire Brenard is Art Curator, First World War and Early Twentieth Century, at IWM.