Title

W. A. Cuthbertson - Artist-Explorer Extraordinaire (Hardcover)

Synopsis

Written by a close family acquaintance, this book tracks the fascinating life of William Alexander (Will) Cuthbertson through his travels, paintings and work, starting from his lengthy 11 years of classic art training in Edinburgh and Paris, including five years at the Royal Scottish Academy, where he gained innumerable awards culminating in a travel scholarship to Spain. Just halfway through his training and still only 20 years of age, he was invited by William Speirs Bruce to join his Scottish National Antarctic Expedition, from 1902 to 1904, as official Ship's Artist—an expedition and experience that would influence him for the rest of his life.

He served actively in both World Wars—in WW1, he joined the RNVR to command a Motor Launch on the Dover Patrol; and then in WW2, when aged 57, he served on mine-sweepers, and later as a naval training officer at Chatham.

The book follows his early traditional teaching and portraiture in Edinburgh, followed by his more avant-garde style of work pursued in Spain, where he was influenced by the light and heat and the work of Joaquín Sorolla; and from thereon, his continual migration towards his ultimately preferred medium—that of watercolours, painted in his peaceful and subtle, yet ever-evolving style, becoming widely renowned for his working-day depictions of his beloved Thames sailing barges.

Only infrequently did he exhibit nationally over the years, but as long-time President and Teacher of the renowned Maldon Art Club for over 20 years, he not only exhibited annually locally, but also became actively involved in the early careers of a number of young artists who would make names for themselves, one way or another—including, ironically, the brilliantly talented, but ultimately flawed and infamous art-forger, Eric Hebborn. This book attempts to highlight the delightful range and variety of work produced by a much-loved and highly respected, but latterly somewhat unheralded, artist—and true friend.

287 pages, with around 135 full colour and 70 monochrome illustrations.
8.5" x 11". Hard cover (cloth bound with laminated dust cover)

See left margin link to view sample pages

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ISBN

978-0-9556626-8-3

Retail Price

£29.95