Ethel Walker (1861-1951) - Early 20th Century Pastel Watching And Waiting

Description

A charming pastel study of two young boys, watching a yellow canary in front of them. The artist has signed to the lower left and to the reverse. The drawing has been presented in a contemporary gilt frame with a grey mount and glazing. On wove.

Condition

The condition is typical for a picture of this age including some discolouration. The frame is in fine condition.

Size

16.6 x 20cm (6.5" x 7.9")
Framed Size: 34.7 x 37.1cm (13.7" x 14.6")

Artist Biography

Walker produced a large body of works from different genres, to include flowers, seascapes, landscapes and mythical subjects. Her influences included Greek and Renaissance art, as well as Chinese painting and Taoist philosophy. She also took interest in the female form. Walker is best known for her portraits of the female form, paying particular attention to the detail of the sitter's/model's expression and individual temperament. Her obvious, tactical brush strokes obscure unnecessary details, thereby allowing her to emphasize the aspects of the mood of the moment.

Walker was a supporter of the natural female form, often publicly rebuking other women for wearing makeup and heavy clothing that hid their form. Her models were never allowed to wear makeup, lipstick, or nail polish during sittings. She painted a series of works that reflected mythological themes, and several works depicting nude female models.
Walker's works throughout her career seemed to capture the human spirit while celebrating the beauty of the female body. Although no longer considered a major artist in history, the art produced by Walker, who died in London, did have a positive and thought-provoking impact on art as a whole. Her art is regularly displayed in exhibits at many galleries, most notably The Gatehouse Gallery in Glasgow, Scotland. She was elected an Associate of the Royal Academy.