A chance purchase of a watercolour by a gentleman in Yorkshire last month and some subsequent internet searching on his part, led him to contacting BGS to find out more about the work of the late Margaret Lanaway (née Burr, BHS 1913). 

The picture he purchased is the view from the south side of the river capturing the Town Bridge and the spire of St. Paul’s. The picture is typical of Margaret’s style and most of her work depicted the East Anglian landscape.

Margaret’s talent was much admired from an early age: throughout her school career Margaret’s artwork won recognition from the Royal Drawing Society of Great Britain and Ireland culminating in her being awarded First Class for a Head from Life and a full honours certificate in 1913. Margaret became well known in Bedford art circles especially Bedford Art Society and was a contemporary and friend of the late Dora Carrington (BHS 1910). After she left BHS Margaret’s drawings were often exhibited by The Pastel Society in their London shows.

The heritage schools have produced a strong artistic legacy which still proudly continues today. We hope you will join us. 

View the painting here.