PICK UP A PENCIL - The work of Laurence Fish

Having now lived and run the Gallery in Winchcombe for many years, I have met and made so many very interesting friends. One friendship that has blossomed and I am privileged to have made, is that of Jean Bray, Sudeley Castle's archivist. Having already written and had books published such as The Lady of Sudeley and the Mysterious Captain Brocklehurst, Jean is about to have yet another book published titled 'Pick up a Pencil'. Not only having lead a very interesting life herself, with a previous career as a publicist in London working with iconic celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe and Errol Flynn. Jean's late husband, Laurence Fish had equally lead a fascinating life. This book, due out soon, covers the work of this extremely talented artist. From serving with the RAF during WWII, seconded to MI5 as a technical specialist in explosive devices, a commercial illustrator, commissioned by many famous British Companies to designing wonderful colour illustrated British Railway Posters many of which capture beautiful ladies in bathing costumes to which Jean fondly refers to as 'his cheesecakes'. In later life, when Laurence was able to shed the constraints of commercial work, he enjoyed painting in an impressionist manner working in oils and watercolours. His subject matter often capturing scenes of harbours, towns and market places in popular and less familiar locations abroad. As well as regularly showing in the Cotswolds, he exhibited in the Royal Academy Summer Show and at the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolour and the Royal Society of Marine Artists, as well as many provincial galleries. He is also represented in several corporate collections. As to the title of the book, you may wonder how this came about. Jean decided to use a quote from one of Laurence's favourite sayings “sooner or later someone has to pick up a pencil”.......... The launch of this beautifully illustrated book will take place at Winds of Change Gallery, where you will have opportunity to meet Jean Bray who will be signing copies of the book. There will also be an exhibition of Laurence's posters and original paintings some of which will be for sale. Should you wish to hear more about the book or come along to the launch please contact the gallery...... . More information coming soon.