A major exhibition of the work of Edward Bawden and Eric Ravilious, with new work by contemporary artist Mark Hearld opens this month.  Curator Lara Goodband explains the inspiration behind the show

The work of Edward Bawden and Eric Ravilious seems to sum up our nostalgic view of early twentieth-century England. In the past couple of years their hand-cut prints and designs have re-emerged as Faber and Faber book covers, and in numerous World of Interiors articles. Their style has been borrowed by many a contemporary designer, as we all fall back in love with the home-made and the hand knitted. 

I’ve long known and admired Ravilious’s watercolours and his ghostly landscapes of inter-war Britain; works that resonate with a pathos reminiscent of his teacher Paul Nash.  But it was when I saw Scarborough Art Gallery’s two wonderful watercolours of Brick House in Great Bardfield, one by each of these artists, that I really fell in love with their work.

I was lucky enough to be curator at the gallery for more than six years. I spent a long time with these works and began to think about an exhibition devoted to their art and design. In April 2008 I gave a lunch-time talk to an enthusiastic audience, and realised that there were many people who were aware of their importance in the history of British art and design.

In my opinion Edward Bawden is still underrated. His map of Scarborough, normally hidden away in Scarborough children’s library, is a wonderful collage that sums-up the joy of a holiday destination. It is the perfect partner to the gallery’s ‘peep show’. 

Tom Laughton, the hotelier and brother of the famous Charles, brought the works to Scarborough. Laughton also commissioned Bawden to illustrate wine lists and menus to both his Pavilion and Royal Hotels. Bawden produced advertising for London Transport, Fortnum and Mason, and the Orient Line as well as creating a range of wallpapers.  So, even if his name is un-familiar, you will immediately recognise his style.

I have known Mark Hearld’s work since my days at York art Gallery.  This exhibition gave a great chance to show his work alongside the two great twentieth-century artist-designers. Mark’s work has also found its way into our homes through greetings cards, ceramics and The World of Interiors. 

Fundamental to this exhibition is Mark’s room which he is creating especially for Scarborough.  It will be a treasure-trove of visual delights ranging from stuffed birds from the museum collections to craft pieces by other artists as well as his own miscellaneous collections, collages and prints.  All this has been made possible with a grant from the Arts Council which will also give Mark the time to produce a new print of and for Scarborough – I can’t wait to see it, it is sure to be as quirky, charming and visually exciting as his other work.

East Coasting:
Art & Design by
Edward Bawden and
Eric Ravilious with
Mark Hearld
 
7 March to 4 May
Scarborough Art Gallery
The Crescent