Searle in Cambridge

 I realized the Searle exhibition at the Fitzwilliam had published a catalogue and swiftly put in an order which arrived this week. It's a slim but important volume with revealing text from those involved with curating the show and its complimentary exhibition at the Anglia Ruskin art school, Searle's alma mater. There are words from Ronald's Literary Agent Rachel Calder delightfully describing visits to the Searles. Also Professor of illustration at Anglia Ruskin Martin Salisbury  and Jane Munro Keeper Paintings, Drawings and Prints at the Fitzwilliam, and an introduction by Quentin Blake.
The catalogue contains several photographs from Searle's personal collection revealing his day to day concerns and disciplined work ethic. You can order from the museum online store here

Searle and Cambridge

Searle was featured on the BBC's 'The Great Antiques Map of Britain' in its stop at Cambridge where the artist was born. He studied at the Cambridge School of Art now part of the Anglia Ruskin University. Professor of Illustration Martin Salisbury is interviewed and displays the school's collection of Searle ephemera including his art class score cards, nibs, sketchbooks and the original printing 'line blocks' used to print Searle's first collection of his wartime POW sketches. There are also several original drawings on display.

'By Rocking Chair Across Spain'

London gallery owner and illustration specialist Chris Beetles is consulted on the value of a drawing of 'Grand Central Station Commuters'. He says he would sell the drawing in his gallery between 4500-5500 British pounds.

The show can be viewed in the UK on the BBC i-player here for the next month.

Memories of Searle written by Prof. Martin Salisbury

Exhibition of Searle's work at Anglia Ruskin