A new book by author and journalist David Buckman aims to bring the "once-almost-invisible story of the East London Group" to a wider audience. The volume, titled "Artists of the East London Group," details the lives of artists who were active in Britain during the 1920s and 1930s, with their work previously featured in institutions like the Whitechapel Art Gallery and the National Gallery, Millbank (now Tate Britain).
The group comprised individuals from diverse backgrounds, including John Cooper, the son of a grocer; Albert Turpin, a window cleaner and former sailor; Grace Oscroft, the daughter of an ironmonger; and Phyllis Bray, described as the rebellious daughter of an aide to Tsar Nicholas II's mother. Buckman highlights these individuals as ordinary people who achieved extraordinary artistic recognition.
The common thread running through their diverse artistic styles is a focus on working-class London during the interwar years. Their paintings capture everyday scenes, depicting wharves, lumber yards, rooftops, children at play, and bustling street gatherings, offering a vibrant portrayal of life in East London.
Buckman's research, presented in the 400-page book, is characterized as both finely researched and accessible, allowing readers to discover new details. The book also notes that some works, while appearing placid, may hint at underlying themes, such as the omnipresence of war.
In conjunction with the book, a sister exhibition celebrating the work of Phyllis Bray is running at the Batsford Gallery until June 21st. "Artists of the East London Group" is available from the Mail Bookshop.