Eric Ravilious was a multi-talented British artist renowned for his proficiency in various media. He is best known for his watercolours, which capture the English landscape with a distinctive clarity and modernist sensibility. His technique often involved delicate washes over precise pencil outlines, creating luminous and intricate compositions.
In addition to watercolour, Ravilious excelled in wood engraving, a skill he honed under the mentorship of Paul Nash at the Royal College of Art. His woodcuts, characterised by meticulous detail and fine line work, were widely used in book illustrations and commercial designs. Beyond these, he also ventured into lithography, ceramics, and textile design, collaborating with companies like Wedgwood to produce decorative pieces such as a design for the anticipated coronation of Edward VIII. Ravilious had initially designed a Wedgwood mug for Edward VIII’s anticipated 1937 coronation, later reworked for George VI in 1937 and Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.
Eric Ravilious' Subject Matter
Ravilious drew inspiration primarily from the English countryside, especially the Great Bardfield, Essex where his home Brick House was located. His works often depict rolling hills, coastal scenes, rural architecture, and everyday objects, rendered with a blend of nostalgia and modernity. His unique perspective offered an off-kilter yet precise examination of vernacular art and landscape.
During World War II, as an Official War Artist, Ravilious expanded his repertoire to include military subjects. He portrayed airfields, boats and submarines, and interiors related to the war effort, maintaining his characteristic observational approach that conveyed a sense of stillness amidst turmoil.
Eric Ravilious' Life and Death
Born on July 22, 1903, in Acton, London, Ravilious moved with his family to Eastbourne, Sussex, where his parents operated an antiques shop. He attended Eastbourne School of Art and later the Royal College of Art, where he formed a lasting friendship with fellow artist Edward Bawden and studied under Paul Nash. In 1930, he married fellow artist Tirzah Garwood; the couple had three children: John, James, and Anne.
In 1942, while serving as a war artist, Ravilious went missing during a reconnaissance mission over Iceland. The aircraft he was aboard was lost, and his body was never recovered. He was officially declared dead on September 2, 1942.
Eric Ravilious' Reception
Ravilious' work has been celebrated for its clarity, composition, and distinctive vision of the British landscape. His ability to blend traditional and modern influences has garnered enduring admiration. His paintings and prints continue to captivate audiences with their subtle yet powerful atmospheres.
Interest in Ravilious has seen a resurgence, particularly with the release of the documentary Eric Ravilious: Drawn to War. This film explores his life, artistic achievements, and untimely death, bringing his work to a wider audience and reaffirming his status as one of Britain’s cherished 20th-century artists.
Where Can You View and Buy Prints by Eric Ravilious?
Ravilious' original paintings are housed in major collections, including the Tate, the Imperial War Museum, and the Fry Art Gallery, where visitors can view his work firsthand. Public exhibitions of his work are regularly held in British museums and galleries, further cementing his reputation as a key figure in British art history.
For collectors and enthusiasts, prints of Ravilious' work are available through various reputable art dealers and auction houses. His original paintings command significant prices at auction, with some fetching substantial sums, reflecting the growing appreciation for his work. High-quality reproductions are also accessible, making his art available to a broader audience. Collectors should be careful not to mistake these for his original printed works. Speak with one of our specialists for more information.
