mixed media (pen and ink, linocut on paper) 2005/6
Nothing perhaps exemplifies the richness of talent that had been present in Great Bardfield more than this simple drawing by Richard Bawden. Great Bardfield, with cottages dating back to the 14th century, was and still is, a picturesque village between Saffron Walden and Braintree in Essex. The first of the artists to make the journey were Eric Ravilious and Edward Bawden, who sought a base for painting watercolours. They would be joined by other artists, designers and craftspeople and the community soon numbered around 40, including their families. For about 50 years the countryside, buildings and people around Great Bardfield would be their inspiration, with John Aldridge bringing that golden age to a close by his death in 1983.
Donated by the artist.
Works by Richard Bawden and other Bardfield artists can be found at The Fry’s Annual Sale on the 20/21 November: more information here.