Bernard Dunstan (1920-2017) - Framed Mid 20th Century Oil Sand Dunes

Description

Two children sit peacefully on a sand dune amongst grasses swaying in the sea breeze in this charming scene by British artist Bernard Dunstan (1920-2017). Dunstan was influenced by the Intimist movement, particularly the work of Édouard Vuillard and Pierre Bonnard. Intimism focused on the depiction of banal yet personal scenes of family life, a theme which is certainly evident in this work. Dunstan imbues an ordinary moment with significance, immortalising this fleeting moment of idyllic childhood innocence and steeping it in nostalgia. Monogrammed to the lower left. Well presented in a gilt frame. On board.

Condition

There is some light wear around the edges where the frame has rubbed against the paint surface; however, the piece is in good condition otherwise. Inspection under UV light reveals no restoration. Minor scuffing and scratches to the frame.

Size

71.5 x 71.5cm (28.1" x 28.1")
Framed Size: 84 x 84cm (33.1" x 33.1")

Artist Biography

Bernard Dunstan (1920-2017) was a British artist, teacher, and author. At the time of his death, he was the longest-serving Royal Academician. Born in Teddington, Middlesex, Dunstan studied at Byam Shaw School of Art and the Slade School of Art. He would go on to have an extensive teaching career, including at the West of England College of Art in Bristol, Camberwell School of Arts & Crafts, Byam Shaw School of Art, Ravensbourne College of Art, and City and Guilds of London Art School. He also published several books on painting methods. Dunstan drew inspiration from the 'intimiste' style of Édouard Vuillard and Pierre Bonnard. Intimism focuses on the depiction of banal yet personal domestic scenes, particularly those within domestic interiors. Dunstan exhibited frequently, including at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and the New English Art Club. He was elected a member of NEAC in 1946, a member of the Royal West of England Academy in 1949 (acting as president from 1979-83), and a member of the Royal Academy of Arts in 1968. His work is in numerous public collections, including the Aberdeen Art Gallery, Bristol Art Gallery, Museum of London, Brighton & Hove Art Gallery, National Library of Wales, National Gallery of New Zealand, National Portrait Gallery, and Royal Collection.