Willem Johan Barbieri, a Surrealist painter from Rotterdam and Pauline Suett Barbieri, a Surrealist painter/poet from Liverpool met in Italy in 1971. Pauline had been fortunate enough to be shortlisted for the Bridport Poetry Prize by the Poet Laureate, Sir Andrew Motion, the Exeter University Poetry Prize, twice and has won many prizes. Willem’s work was often inspired by the post-war Dutch Landscape, including the dynamic rebuilding of the city, which he vividly remembered as a boy.

As they explored the artistic treasures of Italy together, they uncovered a deep connection and fell in love. They returned to Rotterdam where they were informed that Pauline, being a foreigner, would have to leave Holland if she did not find work or get married. Willem suggested they get married in the Town Hall the next Wednesday, as it was free.

Over forty nine years they would create together, with Willem in his studio and Pauline in her study. In the evening or at the weekend, they would go out and about in the real world, where Pauline usually chatted away whilst Willem walked happily by her side. Only after his death did she have time to see her words and ideas transformed into many of his fascinating paintings.