I have something to say

I know why I want a blog - I have something I want to say. I don't know if anyone else will want to read it, comment on it, agree or disagree with it, but I have a need to say it anyway. That surely is what blogging is about?

Edward Bawden Research

Edward Bawden CBE RA

I've spent today continuing my research into the Illustrated Map of Scarborough by Edward Bawden which hangs (now fairly secretly) at Scarborough Library. I am attempting to put together a proposal to a family trust fund to try and raise money for conservation of the map. I know about the 6 degrees of separation theory, but coincidence never ceases to amaze me.

Maybe its just that you are looking for something, so you are more likely to find it?

I have been looking for a links between the Scarborough map and Quakers in the Cadbury family.(!) not an obvious link I know - but one which I'm managing to establish nonetheless!!

Edward Bawden attended The Friends' School in SaffronWalden.



 
The Cadbury brothers began trading in Birmingham in 1824 with a small grocery shop. In 1849 they left the retail business in the hands of John Cadbury's son , Richard Cadbury Barrow. (Barrow's remained a leading Birmingham store until the 1960's). This is one of numerous graphic works which Bawden designed for Barrows Stores. He also designed similar graphic works for Tom Laughton's hotels in Scarborough. (Tom Laughton being the orginal owner and indeed commissioner of the Scarborough Map.

This is a mural (made of nails) designed by Bawden for Carrs Lane Congregational Chapel in Birmingham in 1971. Now part of the United Reformed Church there are strong links to local quakers through Birmingham Churches Together, Fairtrade and Woodbrook Quaker Study Centre - set in the grounds and former home of George Cadbury.

My investigations continue . . .

Why do I want a blog?

Looking through a-n I realise that many professional artists have blogs. I seem to be about 3 or 4 years out of date on this one - so here goes. I don't know who will read it, or how they will read it - how will others communicate with me etc etc. But I've got to start somewhere! "artists talking article in a-n "everyone knows its not enough to just make work if, that is, you want to be taken seriously. - you can't make work in a vacuum and its useful to know who your work is in converstion with and what it is saying - "

I'm going to publish this first attempt. Whoever you may be - if you see it and think I'm twit - you're probably right!