Eric Ravilious Exhibition (Dulwich Picture Gallery)

Model of Dulwich Picture Gallery

Today was allocated to a trip to Dulwich Picture Gallery to see the Eric Ravilious art exhibition. I enjoy his art very much and as he lived in Sussex for a time (which I know well), he painted many Sussex landscapes. In fact many pictures were lent by the Towner Art Gallery in Eastbourne for this exhibition. Ravilious uses distinct lines and curves in his art with precise shading. Working in mainly watercolour and pencil (sometimes crayon) the majority of his pictures are in light colour tones. There is something almost innocent about the art works. Ravilious also worked on a mural for Morley College in London (where I have often taken adult education courses). Unfortunately this perished in the blitz. All that is left are the workings and sketches. As well as paintings there was on show his original engraving equipment and letters. In the second world war Ravilious worked as a war artist. There are many pictures of aircraft and ships as well as a set of pictures depicting the life of sub-mariners. This is an excellent exhibition but it ends at the end of the month, so there are only a few weeks left to view it.

After leaving the exhibition I treated myself to a cup of tea and a large slice of bakewell tart from the portable cafe in the gardens. As well as tables they had placed picnic blankets and cushions on the grass for customer use. I had a nice relaxing time over my refreshments while reading my book.

Refreshments break

In the gardens

Dulwich Picture Gallery

Not knowing the Dulwich area well (I've only been to the gallery once before), I decided to do some exploring and found Dulwich Park. What a lovely green space in London. As well as playing areas and tennis courts, there is a large lake (with boats), bike hire, a conservation area, a cafe and lots of places to sit. It made for a very pleasant walk before heading back to the station.