Rights Managed > Historic England > More features > Festivals and Exhibitions > Festival of Britain 1951
Country Life OP35904
Filename: op35904.jpg
Size: 5787 x 4283 (3.2MB)
Date: 24th June 2022
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Archive
Source: Historic England Archive
Owner URL: https://images.historicenglandservices.org.uk/
© Historic England Archive
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Country Life OP35904
Festival of Britain, South Bank Exhibition, South Bank, Lambeth, Greater London. Part of the mural Country Life by Edward Bawden, in the Lion and the Unicorn Pavilion at the South Bank Exhibition of the Festival of Britain.
The original caption reads: " The mural be Edward Bowden (sic) in the Lion and the Unicorn Pavilion, South Bank Exhibition, Festival of Britain 1951."
The mural Country Life consisted of 72 panels each around 6 feet in width, which were arranged in angled vertical facets. The mural covered a whole end wall in the gallery of the Lion and Unicorn Pavilion and measured approximately 40 feet by 45 feet. The painting was assisted by Sheila Robinson, Walter Hoyle and Bryn Alderid. After the Festival, the mural was placed into storage. In 1961 it was moved to the Berkshire Institute of Agriculture, but is since believed to be lost or damaged
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 25316265
© Historic England Archive
Artist Black And White Design Exhibition Exhibition Pavilion Shadow Modern Art
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable piece of art known as "Country Life" by Edward Bawden, which was displayed at the South Bank Exhibition during the Festival of Britain in 1951. The mural, located in the Lion and the Unicorn Pavilion, consisted of an impressive collection of 72 panels, each measuring around 6 feet in width. These panels were arranged in angled vertical facets, creating a visually striking effect. Covering an entire end wall within the gallery, this mural spanned approximately 40 feet by 45 feet and depicted scenes from rural life. The painting process involved not only Edward Bawden but also talented artists such as Sheila Robinson, Walter Hoyle, and Bryn Alderid. After its exhibition at the Festival of Britain concluded, this magnificent artwork was carefully placed into storage. In 1961 it found a new home at the Berkshire Institute of Agriculture; however, its current whereabouts remain uncertain due to potential loss or damage over time. This photograph captures the essence of this extraordinary mural with its intricate details and play on light and shadow. It serves as a testament to both Edward Bawden's artistic prowess and his contribution to modern art during that era.
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