As part of our Revolutionary season, Milton’s Cottage is pleased to announce a new solo exhibition by Simon Brewster.  On display throughout Bucks Art Weeks, these works respond to Milton’s revolutionary writings as well as the distressed walls, historic architecture, and unique atmosphere of his only surviving residence.

The word revolutionary derives from the Latin revolvere, meaning “to revolve” or “roll back”.  Initially used to describe the celestial movement of planets, or a circular orbit, its political sense of sudden, radical change emerged in the English language around the 15th century, with the adjective revolutionary (“pertaining to or causing revolution”) forming in the 17th century

From revolving installations to low reliefs and angelic assemblages, Brewster’s works respond to both meanings of the word.  They are displayed throughout the historic rooms of Milton’s Cottage, where Milton completed his epic masterpiece Paradise Lost, and are shown alongside rare first editions of Milton’s radical political tracts as well as his poetry.

Evoking Milton’s universal themes of creation, destruction, loss and redemption, Brewster rolls back layers of time in homage to the physical infrastructure as well as the imaginary possibilities of this unique literary landmark – a 16th century farmworkers’ dwelling that for a brief, extraordinary period was home to one of our greatest writers, the place where his greatest work was composed.

Kelly O’Reilly, Director of Milton’s Cottage, says “Since 1688, when the first illustrated edition of Paradise Lost was published, Milton’s poetry has inspired artists and revolutionaries, as well as writers.  We’re delighted to show the work of a contemporary artist who is continuing this tradition.”

Notes to editors

1. Milton’s Cottage, in Chalfont St Giles, is the only surviving home of the visionary poet and parliamentarian John Milton. It’s the place where he sought refuge from the Great Plague of 1665 to complete his epic masterpiece, Paradise Lost.
2. Milton’s Cottage is overseen by Milton’s Cottage Trust, an independent charity established to preserve Milton’s Cottage, its collection and garden for future generations.
3. The exhibition runs from 3 – 28 June 2026 and is included with entry to Milton’s Cottage. Opening times are Wednesday to Sunday, from 2 to 5pm (last entry 4.30pm) as well as bank holidays Mondays.  Admission prices are £7 / £6 for concessions / free for carers and children under 16.
4. Simon Brewster is a British artist and art teacher who works across media. His work was selected for the 2025 ING Discerning Eye exhibition at the Mall Galleries as well as the 2020 Trinity Buoy Wharf Drawing Prize.  He is the tutor for Scout Hut Artists, weekly art session held at the Scout Hut in Chalfont St. Peter.
5. There will be an opening reception for Revolvere at Milton’s Cottage on Thursday 4 June 2026, from 5 – 7pm.
6. For further information and images please contact Kelly O’Reilly, Director of Milton’s Cottage, on 01494 872313 or director@miltonscottage.org