The Reclusive Artist and His 78 Missing Masterpieces
Henry Orlik, a surrealist artist who once exhibited alongside legends like Salvador Dalí, is making a remarkable return to the art scene as the mystery surrounding 78 of his missing paintings unfolds. At 77 years old, Orlik has been hidden away in a housing association flat, creating dreamlike artworks that are now gaining recognition following decades of obscurity.
Recently, The Little Gallery in Marlborough launched a second exhibition featuring Orlik's remaining works, now available for online auction. However, a significant portion of his artistic legacy disappeared during his hospitalization for a stroke in 2022 and has yet to be located.
With the artist unable to paint due to his health, valuing the remaining pieces has become critical. Grant Ford, a gallery owner and former Sotheby’s auction specialist, described Orlik's work as “exceptional” and “mind-bogglingly good.” He was initially brought in by a solicitor trying to help Orlik recover his missing paintings and appraise the ones still in his possession.
Orlik's artistic journey began in the 1970s, but he withdrew from the public eye in the 1980s, disillusioned with the commercial art world. His childhood friend, Jan Pietruska, stepped in to assist Orlik during this challenging time. After Orlik was evicted from his flat while in the hospital, Pietruska began cataloging and preserving the remaining artworks.
Having originally emigrated from Poland with his family in 1948, Orlik now resides in his late mother’s house in Swindon, where he receives care. Despite the challenges he faces, he has managed to store many of his pieces over the years.
Pietruska has been instrumental in organizing exhibitions, showcasing Orlik's art to the public. The first exhibition resulted in around £400,000 in sales for approximately 30 works, with prices ranging from £5,000 to £40,000. The second exhibition has also attracted considerable interest, with online bidders vying for Orlik's unique creations.
Among the enthusiastic buyers is James Clifford, a logistics company owner and art aficionado, who was so captivated by Orlik's work that he rushed to the gallery before it opened. He expressed his admiration for the “extraordinary” skill on display and made an impulsive purchase that he considers one of his best decisions.
Orlik's paintings are characterized by intricate, precise details, including what he calls “excitations”—tiny squiggles that contribute to their unique color palette. His fascination with physics significantly influences his artistic approach, resulting in pieces that resonate with both art lovers and casual observers alike.
As interest in Orlik’s art continues to grow, the search for his missing paintings intensifies. The ongoing hunt aims to uncover what happened to the lost masterpieces during a critical time in his life. Despite the setbacks, Henry Orlik's journey reflects a long-overdue recognition of his talent and contributions to the art world.
