Mary Fedden (1915 – 2012) was a prominent British artist acclaimed for her distinctive still lifes, landscapes, and portraits. Born in Bristol, Fedden’s artistic career spanned several decades, allowing her to carve a niche for herself in the British art scene, especially in the latter half of the 20th century.
Fedden’s painting style is instantly recognizable, characterized by its simplified forms, vibrant palette, and a blend of abstraction and realism. Her still lifes, often featuring everyday objects juxtaposed with birds or flowers, are rendered in a flat, decorative style but pulsate with life and energy. The influences of French modernist painters, especially Henri Matisse, can be discerned in her compositions.
Over the years, Fedden was also influenced by her travels and often incorporated elements from her trips into her work, be it the vast landscapes of Africa or the serene English countryside. The recurring motifs of birds, flowers, and the sea can be traced back to her personal life and her love for the natural world.
In terms of inspiration, apart from her travels, Fedden’s life in London, her observations of the Thames, and her interactions with fellow artists like Julian Trevelyan (her husband) deeply impacted her work.
Artists with a somewhat similar style or who might resonate with Fedden’s approach include Ivon Hitchens and John Piper, both of whom combined abstraction with representational elements in their works.
In summary, Mary Fedden remains a celebrated figure in British art for her unique and vibrant visual language. Her works, teeming with life and colour, offer viewers a fresh perspective on the everyday, elevating mundane subjects to a realm of beauty and intrigue.
Useful Links
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Fedden
https://www.wikiart.org/en/mary-fedden
