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Woman in duster coat, c1950. Creator: Shirley Markham
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Woman in duster coat, c1950. Creator: Shirley Markham
Woman in duster coat, c1950. Fashion illustration. 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 18265739
© Shirley Markham Collection / Heritage-Images
1950s Fifties Markham Midi Retro Shirley Shirley Jane Shirley Jane Markham Shirley Markham Shirley Waite Waite
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This print showcases a woman in a duster coat, exuding elegance and style. Created by the talented Shirley Markham in the 1950s, this fashion illustration reflects her exceptional skills as an artist and illustrator. Markham's artistic 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 writer, artist, poet, and illustrator Mervyn Peake, she honed her craft and developed a unique drawing style influenced by British illustrators like Edward Ardizzone, Quentin Blake, and Edward Bawden. During her time in Italy's Dolomite Mountains and Rome, Markham drew inspiration from classical architecture while sketching buildings that would later inform her work. After graduating from Central School of Art with great promise ahead of her career-wise, societal expectations prevailed when Markham married in 1957. Middle-class women during that era were often expected to focus on raising children and managing household duties rather than pursuing professional ambitions. Sadly for art enthusiasts everywhere but understandable given the circumstances at the time - despite possessing undeniable talent - Markham lacked confidence to return to illustration after marriage. Consequently, her remarkable portfolio remained tucked away in the family attic for many years until now. Today marks an exciting moment as we unveil Shirley Markham's previously unpublished work for all to appreciate. This print serves as a testament to both her immense talent as an artist and the historical context that shaped women's lives during that period.
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