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Two figures, 1953. Creator: Shirley Markham
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Two figures, 1953. Creator: Shirley Markham
Two figures, 1953. Models in a drawing class. 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 18265747
© Shirley Markham Collection / Heritage-Images
1950s Art School Fifties Markham Model Posing School Shirley Shirley Jane Shirley Jane Markham Shirley Markham Shirley Waite Waite Gouache
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This print titled "Two Figures, 1953" showcases the artistic talent of Shirley Markham. The image captures two models in a drawing class, their poses exuding grace and elegance. Markham's creative journey began at Central School of Art in London, where she studied Graphic Design and Illustration from 1950 to 1952 under the guidance of renowned artist Mervyn Peake. Influenced by esteemed British illustrators like Edward Ardizzone, Quentin Blake, and Edward Bawden, Markham developed her own unique style of drawing. Her passion for art took her to the Dolomite Mountains in Italy and Rome, where she sketched classical buildings that inspired her work. After graduating from Central School of Art, Markham embarked on a successful career as a graphic designer. She illustrated books, created cartoons for comics, designed menus and programmes with great skill. However, societal expectations during that era compelled middle-class women like Markham to prioritize family life over professional pursuits. Sadly, despite her evident talent and potential success as an illustrator, she chose to give up her career after getting married in 1957. For years following this decision, Markham's remarkable portfolio remained hidden away in the family attic until now. This publication marks the first time these previously unseen works are being shared with the world—a testament to Shirley Markham's exceptional creativity that was once overshadowed but can now shine brightly once again.
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