Previously unseen artworks by the novelist Iris Murdoch, including a self-portrait, have gone on display for the first time, according to The Guardian. The pieces were discovered in a secret room and are now part of a public exhibition.
The Guardian reports that the collection surfaced from a concealed space, adding a new dimension to the public understanding of Murdoch, who is best known for her writing. The self-portrait is among the featured works, offering a rare visual self-representation by the author.
The display marks a significant moment for admirers of Murdoch, as these pieces were not previously known to exist outside private or archival settings. The Guardian’s coverage highlights the unexpected nature of the find, with the artworks now accessible to the public for viewing.
While the specific venue and duration of the exhibition were not detailed in the available reporting, the news confirms that the works are no longer hidden. The discovery adds to the legacy of Murdoch, whose literary career included novels such as The Sea, The Sea and Under the Net, though the reporting does not link these artworks to any particular period of her life.
What to watch next: whether the exhibition will prompt further research into Murdoch’s visual art practice and if additional unseen works may surface from her estate.
