The Burra Interview - ACE117.2

Credits. Caption: "On two consecutive Tuesdays in April 1972, Edward Burra was interviewed during the making of the Arts Council sponsored film on the artist and his work. The intention was to obtain statements that could be taken out of context for inclusion in the film, but Edward Burra had other ideas about the way the interview should be conducted. The resulting dialogue presents a unique portrait of an artist who had never previously been filmed. "The film consists of all the interview material assembled in chronological order, un-edited and with only a few fragments of technically faulty footage cut out." 17th April, 1972: Edward Burra talks about science fiction and fantasy fiction. Says he’d bored. Would rather be painting. Loses connection with older paintings. Probably likes some more than others but doesn’t know which. Doesn’t remember when he painted things. Currently likes painting landscapes – but might not. Doesn’t have anything to say about his landscapes with trucks. Doesn’t want to talk about certain things as he doesn’t want to offend people. Talks about visiting galleries: sometimes looks at his own paintings but sometimes doesn’t as he already knows them. Frames make pictures look different. Used to talk about films, rarely about paintings. Talks with friends about books, the theatre, how terrible actors are, very little about art. He claims to know very few artists. Prefers the country to the town. Visits London occasionally to see friends. Slate for end of take.