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Market scene, c1950. Creator: Shirley Markham
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Market scene, c1950. Creator: Shirley Markham
Market scene, c1950. 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 18265781
© Shirley Markham Collection / Heritage-Images
1950s Fifties Fruit And Vegetable Stall Market Market Stall Markham Retro Shirley Shirley Jane Shirley Jane Markham Shirley Markham Shirley Waite Waite
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This market scene, captured by the talented Shirley Markham in the 1950s, takes us back to a vibrant era of bustling streets and lively interactions. Markham's artistic journey began at Central School of Art in London, where she studied Graphic Design and Illustration under the guidance of renowned artist Mervyn Peake. Influenced by esteemed British illustrators like Edward Ardizzone, Quentin Blake, and Edward Bawden, her style exudes a unique charm. Markham's passion for travel led her to explore the picturesque Dolomite Mountains in Italy and sketch classical buildings in Rome. These experiences undoubtedly shaped her artistic vision as seen in this remarkable print. Despite her undeniable talent and promising career as a graphic designer producing book illustrations, cartoons for comics, menus, and programmes; societal expectations during that time forced Markham to abandon her professional aspirations after getting married in 1957. Her portfolio remained hidden away in the family attic for many years until now when we have the privilege of unveiling it to the world. This print not only showcases Markham's exceptional skill but also sheds light on an unfortunate reality faced by middle-class women during that era – their talents often overlooked or suppressed due to societal norms. Today marks a significant milestone as we celebrate Shirley Markham's work finally being published for all to appreciate its beauty and significance.
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