u3a

St Ives (Cambs)

Artists along the Ouse

We focussed on  artists from the late 19th/early 20th century before looking at some more recent painters.

We began with an introduction looking at the section of the river Ouse between Huntingdon and Earith where most of the artists worked.

The Fraser family came to this area from Scotland. Six sons of Major Surgeon Robert Winchester Fraser became artists. Holywell seems to have been the village of choice. Since the family names were used repeatedly some of the brothers adopted new names.

Walter Dendy Sadler settled in Hemingford Grey where, in addition to his painting, he became involved  in local events, notably the Hemingfords Regatta. 

Charles Whymper focussed on wildlife and sporting subjects. He settled in Houghton. 

We ended by looking at two artists known to some of us. Steve Lewis taught at St. Ivo School for many years and his prints were often on sale locally. Sue Eddy lives and works in Colne and holds an Open Studio every year. 

We were able to see examples of paintings by all the artists we researched.