Above: St Ives artists John Dyer & Joanne Short pictured in the Porthmeor Studios at the St Ives School of Painting with young artists Thomas and Benji during an art workshop. Photo courtesy of the parents.
St Ives, a picturesque town in Cornwall, has long captured the imagination of artists from around the world. Its unique light and dramatic landscape have attracted artists for centuries, making it a hub for creativity and artistic expression. In this journey through the art world of St Ives, we will explore its rich artistic history, the iconic artists in St Ives who called it home, St Ives School of Painting, and the organisations, galleries, and museums that showcase its vibrant artistic heritage.
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Key Takeaways
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St Ives is a renowned destination for artists due to its picturesque beauty, accessible location and unique light.
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The St Ives School of Painting offers courses and workshops to foster artistic growth in the area.
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St Ives School of Painting and John Dyer's workshop
The Allure of St Ives for Artists
Above: St Ives artist Joanne Short enjoying the atmosphere of the Porthmeor art studios in St Ives and the view to Porthmeor beach and the sea. Buy paintings and prints by Joanne Short
The picturesque beauty of the Cornish coast first lured artists to St Ives in the late nineteenth century. Victorian artists like Louis Grier and James McNeill Whistler frequented the Sloop Inn in St Ives, alongside their pupils, Walter Sickert and Mortimer Mempes. The extension of the Great Western Railway to West Cornwall further established the area as a hub for artists, making the stunning landscape more accessible.
Artists were not only drawn to the breathtaking scenery of St Ives Bay and its charming fishing village, but the town’s unique light also significantly influenced the development of its art scene. The sparkling light and pristine ocean colours of St Ives profoundly affected the unique painting style that emerged. The Porthmeor Studios that are right on the beach with a stunning view of the sea and beach, for example, were utilised by St Ives artists to create a substantial amount of their art, and the studios have been restored and remain in use today.
The St Ives School of Painting
Above: The entrance to the St Ives School of Painting in the Porthmeor Studios. Photo courtesy of St Ives School of Painting.
In 1938, the beauty of St Ives Bay and the surrounding landscape led to the foundation of the St Ives School of Painting. This art school was initiated by St Ives artists Albert Julius Olsson and Louis Grier and was later founded by prominent figures in British art, Borlase Smart and Leonard Fuller. The school provided a platform for artists to come together and develop their skills, fostering artistic growth and development.
Above: Artist Joanne Short in the St Ives School of Painting's Porthmeor Studio that is pictured set up for the John Dyer painting workshop.
Nowadays, the St Ives School of Painting provides a myriad of courses and workshops tailored to artists of varying skill levels and frequently collaborates with local art galleries to display students’ work. The Creative Weekender courses, for example, allow participants to work in the Porthmeor beach studio with a view of the ocean, focusing on replicating the stunning landscape of St Ives.
The school continues to play a significant role in nurturing the artistic talents of both local and visiting artists.
Above: St Ives artist John Dyer painting in the Porthmeor studios for the St Ives School of Painting children's workshop. John Dyer's painting of Barnoon Terrace in St Ives can be seen behind him. View and buy the painting online.
This October saw the ever-inspiring artist John Dyer host two special workshops at the St Ives School of Painting. Known for his vibrant, joy-filled depictions of the natural world, Dyer shared his unique artistic approach with insights into his creative process, and provided hands-on guidance to participants.
Above: St Ives artist John Dyer pictured at the St Ives School of Painting in then Porthmeor Studios with his painting 'Summer Sunshine and Sandpipers, St Ives'. View and buy the painting online.
This workshop presented a rare opportunity for both budding young artists to learn from one of St Ives' contemporary art scene's leading figures. Joanne Short accompanied John Dyer at the St Ives School of Painting to deliver the workshops and helped to inspire the 28 young artists to develop their own creative process.
Above: John Dyer with children attending the St Ives School of Painting workshop with him. The children are drawing St Ives harbour.
Artists John Dyer and Joanne Short took the artists to Norway Square to draw the plants and buildings and to take colour notes before they headed dow to the harbour ad beach for further drawings and inspiration. The children then returned to the St Ives School of Painting to complete their final painting based on their journey through St Ives.
Above: A few examples of the paintings and drawings created by the children during the John Dyer St Ives School of Painting workshops
Iconic St Ives Artists
Above: Wilamena Dyer (pictured aged 8), the youngest daughter of John Dyer and Joanne Short, with a Barbara Hepworth sculpture in St Ives.
The artistic community of St Ives has given rise to several iconic artists who have left an indelible mark on the town’s rich artistic heritage. These artists include:
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Barbara Hepworth
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Ben Nicholson
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Patrick Heron
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Peter Lanyon
Each of these artists has contributed to the artistic legacy of St Ives, and their works can be found in galleries and museums across the town, especially after they visited St Ives.
Subsequent sections offer a more detailed exploration into the lives and works of these well-known artists, focusing on contemporary and modern art.
Barbara Hepworth
Barbara Hepworth, a renowned sculptor, was drawn to the light and encompassing scenery of St Ives. Her work was heavily influenced by the St Ives landscape and light, giving her sculptures a distinct sense of place. Some of her most renowned sculptures inspired by St Ives include:
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Two Forms (1969)
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Palais de Danse (1931)
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Sculpture for a Modern World (1951)
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Sea Form (1958)
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Pelagos (1946)
Hepworth’s legacy continues to be honored in St Ives through the Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden, located at her former home and studio, Trewyn Studios. The museum serves as a testament to her artistic achievements and her deep connection with the town.
Ben Nicholson
Ben Nicholson, a founding member of the St Ives School of Art, initially focused on still life and landscape paintings, making a valuable contribution to the establishment of the school. However, after visiting Paris and being exposed to Post-Impressionist and Cubist works, his artistic style evolved. Nicholson became known for his abstract painting style, which was influenced by his interactions with other St Ives artists, such as Alfred Wallis.
Nicholson’s significant contributions and distinctive artistic style were instrumental in determining the direction of the St Ives School of Art. His appreciation for Barns-Graham’s work, for example, was rooted in her meticulous drawing and arrangement of shapes and colors.
Patrick Heron
Patrick Heron was a highly esteemed painter whose art was heavily influenced by:
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Cézanne
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Matisse
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Braque
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Bonnard
He sought to evoke emotions in his paintings through the manipulation of color and light, with color being a pivotal element of his work. Cornwall held considerable significance for Heron, and this connection can be seen in his vibrant and colorful paintings.
Heron’s exploration and utilization of color and light have made him a celebrated figure in the St Ives artistic community. His unique approach to painting has left a lasting impact on the art world, and his connection to St Ives continues to inspire artists today.
Peter Lanyon
Peter Lanyon, an artist renowned for his exuberant, vivacious abstractions, was consistently inspired by the Cornish landscape that he held in high regard. His artistic style was influenced by American artists such as Sam Francis, Mark Rothko, and Willem de Kooning’s Abstract Expressionist work.
Aside from his passion for painting, Lanyon also had a love for gliding. This unique interest further informed his artistic perspective, providing him with a distinctive viewpoint from which to capture the beauty of the Cornish landscape.
John Dyer
John Dyer, a renowned contemporary British and Cornish artist, is known worldwide for his paintings and art prints. His artistic style can be described as modern naive painting, characterised by vibrant colours and joyful portrayals of landscapes and nature. Dyer amalgamates elements of post-impressionism and expressionism in his distinctive artistic vision, inspired by the artistic heritage of St Ives and the town’s unique atmosphere.
Dyer’s paintings often investigate themes related to the natural world, such as rainforests, gardens, and tropical landscapes, reflecting his solicitude for the planet and the significance of conserving the environment. His work continues to capture the essence of St Ives and its picturesque beauty, making him an important figure in the town’s contemporary art scene.
Joanne Short
Joanne Short is regarded as the foremost colourist artist in Cornwall. Her paintings are renowned for their vibrant landscapes and still lifes in a ‘naive’ style, capturing the unique beauty of St Ives.
Short’s work has been exhibited in St Ives galleries such as the Crypt Gallery. Her paintings serve as a testament to her artistic talent and her deep connection with the town, further enriching St Ives’ vibrant artistic community.
Artistic Organisations and Societies
Above: St Ives School of Painting sign and art palette on whitewashed wood creating a perfect artistic and seaside feel. Photo courtesy of St Ives School of Painting.
Various artistic organisations and societies, pivotal in nurturing the creative community, are based in St Ives. The St Ives Society of Artists, established in 1927, is a gallery featuring works chosen by guest curators and invited exhibitions, representing a diverse mix of contemporary visual art.
The Penwith Society of Arts, founded by artists such as:
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Barbara Hepworth
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Ben Nicholson
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Peter Lanyon
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Bernard Leach
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Sven Berlin
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Wilhelmina Barns-Graham
The St Ives School was instituted by abstract artists who sought to expand the scope of modern art, departing from the more conventional figurative style. These organizations and societies have fostered the growth of St Ives’ artistic community and preserved and promoted its rich artistic heritage.
Galleries and Museums in St Ives
Above: A school group visiting the John Dyer and Joanne Short exhibition at the Crypt Gallery in St Ives. Many schools study the art of John Dyer. View the exhibition online.
St Ives Cornwall boasts a wealth of galleries and museums that showcase the town’s artistic history and contemporary works. Tate St Ives, located on Porthmeor Beach, is a museum and exhibition space that displays works by artists from Cornwall and St Ives, as well as a program of temporary exhibitions featuring international artists. With its proximity to St Ives Harbour, the museum offers visitors a unique cultural experience in a stunning coastal setting.
Other notable galleries and museums in St Ives include the Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden and the Leach Pottery, which serve to exhibit the town’s artistic heritage and celebrate the works of renowned artists such as Hepworth and Leach. These institutions are instrumental in preserving the artistic legacy of St Ives and promoting the development of its creative community.
John Dyer, Ted Dyer and Joanne Short: Contemporary Artists Who Paint St Ives
The beauty and unique atmosphere of St Ives continue to inspire contemporary artists like John Dyer, Ted Dyer, and Joanne Short, as reflected in their works. By painting St Ives, these artists not only contribute to the town’s rich artistic heritage but also help to preserve its unique charm and distinct visual identity.
Their works, which can be found in galleries and museums across the town, serve as a testament to the enduring allure of St Ives for artists from around the world. By supporting these contemporary artists, we can ensure that the artistic legacy of St Ives continues to thrive and inspire future generations.
Art Workshops and Classes
Above: St Ives artists and tutors John Dyer and Joanne Short at the St Ives School of Painting overlooking Porthmeor beach.
For individuals eager to explore their creativity or hone their artistic abilities, St Ives provides a range of art workshops and classes designed for artists of varying ages and skill levels. For example, the St Ives School of Painting offers St Ives art courses for individuals of varying abilities and in various mediums, providing opportunities for creative exploration and skill development at the St Ives School Art. Both John Dyer and Joanne Short have taught art for many years at Falmouth School of Art - now Falmouth University and John Dyer is an official tutor at the St Ives School of Painting.
Supporting Local Art - Buying art online
Supporting local art by purchasing it online aids in preserving St Ives’ artistic legacy and fosters the development of its creative community. Purchasing art online affords local artists financial support, exposure, recognition, and the opportunity to foster a sense of community and engagement. Reliable online platforms for purchasing local art in St Ives include The John Dyer Gallery.
Investments in local art by both individuals and businesses fuel the overall growth and sustainability of St Ives’ creative community.
Summary
In conclusion, St Ives is a vibrant and thriving artistic hub, with its unique light and dramatic landscape inspiring generations of artists. From its rich artistic history and the St Ives School of Painting to iconic artists like Barbara Hepworth and John Dyer, the town’s artistic heritage is a testament to its enduring allure. By supporting local art, visiting galleries and museums, and participating in art workshops and classes, we can ensure that the artistic legacy of St Ives continues to inspire and captivate for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the artists working in St Ives?
The St Ives School was comprised of several renowned modernist artists including Ben Nicholson, Barbara Hepworth, Naum Gabo, Patrick Heron, Francis Bacon, Wilhelmina Barns Graham, Paul Feiler, Sir Terry Frost, Roger Hilton, Peter Lanyon, Karl Weschke and Bryan Wynter, as well as the pioneer modern potter, Bernard Leach.
Why do artists like St Ives?
St Ives has a legacy of inspiring some of the world's greatest artists with its soft light, turquoise sea and fascinating history, making it an ideal destination for any creative.
Did Ben Nicholson live in St Ives?
Yes, Ben Nicholson lived in St Ives for 19 years with his second wife, Barbara Hepworth. They were influential figures in the town's development as an artists' colony and their time there marked one of the most productive periods of Nicholson's working life.
What is the St Ives School of Painting?
The St Ives School of Painting is an artist's school founded in 1938, offering courses and workshops to promote artistic growth and development.
What galleries and museums can be found in St Ives?
St Ives is home to renowned galleries and museums such as the Tate St Ives, Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden and Leach Pottery, making it a must-see destination for art lovers.
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