edward bawden cbe ra

Edward Bawden (English, 1903-1989) was an esteemed painter, illustrator, and designer. Whilst he is perhaps best known for his commercial work, he is also recognised for his linocut printmaking. Now considered one of the most influential artists of his generation, Bawden began his art career as a student at the Royal College of Art, before working as a commercial artist and later a war artist during the Second World War. A fine watercolourist, Bawden painted in a number of different forms such as poster and wallpaper designs, and murals, however, he is most celebrated for his book illustrations which were mostly done using ink and pencil, but sometimes various printing methods were employed. 

Bawden was much admired by graphic artists including Edward Gorey and David Gentleman, and his work is often compared and associated with Eric Ravilious. He bequeathed around 3,000 of his works to The Higgins Art Gallery & Museum, but others can be found within collections at the Fry Art Gallery.