From a Kentish cabin to Compton Verney: The great re-discovery of textile visionary Elizabeth Allen

From a cabin in a Kentish forest to Hollywood, and then obscurity – the story of Elizabeth Allen’s life and work mirrors her creations in its unconventionality. Now, 60 years after her debut exhibition, her absurd, bitterly funny and often boldly prophetic creations are being re-discovered, and Compton Verney will display 12 of her textiles, including ones never seen in public before. These will be displayed alongside works by other visionary artists, creatives who have made work in similar ways as Allen. These artists are also interested in the supernatural and religion, and who take elements of real world and make it strange through their work. Troublemakers and Prophets: Elizabeth Allen and Other Visionary Artists will display these works over four rooms, where visitors will experience the topsy-turvy realm of seers gifted with sight beyond this world.