Edward Burra

Izzy Orts

About this artwork

This painting shows Izzy Orts, a popular bar and dance-hall once located at the docks in Boston, but now demolished. Burra was a frequent visitor to the bar, no doubt attracted by the lively mix of clientele. Many of his works depict life in the seedier areas of cities. Burra visited America several times and this picture is believed to have been painted during his second visit in 1937. The vibrant scene contains a number of strange characters, such as the disquieting blank-eyed sailor who faces the viewer. The sailor in the foreground on the left-hand side is a self-portrait of the artist. The work is painted in watercolour, Burra's favourite medium.

Updated before 2020

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Edward Burra

Edward Burra