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Picnic, c1950. Creator: Shirley Markham
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Picnic, c1950. Creator: Shirley Markham
Picnic, c1950. Shirley Markham (1931-1999) studied Graphic Design and Illustration at Central School of Art in London from 1950-1952. The writer, artist, poet, and illustrator Mervyn Peake (1911-1968) was one of her tutors, and her style of drawing was also influenced by other British illustrators such as Edward Ardizzone, Quentin Blake and Edward Bawden. Markham spent time in the Dolomite Mountains in Italy, and also visited Rome, sketching classical buildings. After graduating from Central, she worked as a graphic designer, producing book illustrations, cartoons for comics, menus and programmes. She gave up her promising career however when she got married in 1957. Middle-class women at that time were expected to devote their energies to bringing up children and running the home, and despite her obvious talent, she lacked the confidence to return to illustration. Her portfolio remained in the family attic for many years, but now her work is published here for the first time
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Media ID 18266237
© Shirley Markham Collection / Heritage-Images
1950s Eating Fifties Markham Orange Orange Colour Picnic Retro Shirley Shirley Jane Shirley Jane Markham Shirley Markham Shirley Waite Waite Graphic Design Green Colour
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This print titled "Picnic, c1950" captures the essence of a bygone era. Created by Shirley Markham, an accomplished artist and illustrator, this piece reflects her unique style influenced by renowned British illustrators such as Edward Ardizzone, Quentin Blake, and Edward Bawden. Markham's artistic journey began at the Central School of Art in London where she studied Graphic Design and Illustration from 1950-1952. During her time there, she had the privilege of being mentored by Mervyn Peake, a celebrated writer, artist, poet, and illustrator. Her exposure to his expertise undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping her own artistic vision. The photograph itself transports us to a serene picnic scene set against nature's backdrop. It exudes tranquility as people enjoy each other's company amidst lush greenery. The attention to detail is evident in every stroke; one can almost feel the warmth of the sun filtering through leaves or hear laughter carried on gentle breezes. Unfortunately for Markham, societal expectations during that era dictated that middle-class women should prioritize their roles as homemakers over pursuing careers outside the home. Despite her undeniable talent and promising career prospects as a graphic designer and illustrator after graduation from Central School of Art in 1957 when she got married she chose not to return to illustration due to lack of confidence. For many years Markham's remarkable portfolio remained hidden away in the family attic until now when it is finally being unveiled for public appreciation. This long-awaited publication allows us all to marvel at Markham's exceptional talent which might have otherwise been lost forever.
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