Stunning collection of Thames-side views alongside more recent watercolours

A long-awaited one-man exhibition of paintings and watercolours by Chiswick artist William Bowyer will be held at Messum’s from 28th April and will comprise a stunning collection of Thames-side views dating from the late-1970s and early 1980s, alongside a smaller group of more recent watercolours.

A gregarious man laden with honours - he is both a Royal Academician and was the head of the New English Art Club for three decades - Bowyer is still dubbed the most famous unknown artist in Britain.

Born in Staffordshire in 1926, Bowyer trained as an artist at night while toiling in a coal mine during the day as a Bevin Boy. At the Royal College of Art he was taught by Ruskin Spear and Carel Weight—mentors who would become life-long friends.

In 1951 he married Vera Small, took up residence in Chiswick and embarked on a thirty-year career teaching in art schools initially at Gravesend where his star student was Peter Blake.

His work has for decades been divided between Thames-side scenes around his home in Chiswick and the Suffolk coast between Dunwich and Southwold. He has put down deep roots in both places and is noted for being out and about with his paints and easel in all weathers.

April 26, 2010