Artwork
St. Mary's Homes and Chapel, Godstone
St. Mary's Homes and Chapel, Godstone is a watercolor work on paper by Barbara Jones. It dates from 1942 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
A little tower with a cross sits next to it, and a bridge crosses the water in front.
This watercolor shows a small group of old-style buildings by a pond. The main building has a steep roof, white walls, and dark wooden beams. A little tower with a cross sits next to it, and a bridge crosses the water in front. The colors are soft—mostly browns, greens, and yellows—with a quiet, peaceful feel.
The artist signed it "Barbara Jones, 1942" in the corner. The text also names the place: *St. Mary’s Homes and Chapel, Godstone*.
Check out Victoria and Albert Museum to see more of this painting.
Overview
This 1942 watercolour by Barbara Jones depicts St. Mary's Homes and Chapel in Godstone. The painting captures a serene scene of historic almshouses and a chapel by a pond, rendered in soft colours.
Subject & Meaning
The work shows picturesque timber-framed buildings designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott, with the chapel's slender spire visible behind a chimney. The tranquil atmosphere evokes a sense of heritage and national identity.
Technique & Style
Executed in watercolour, the painting features soft, muted tones, predominantly browns, greens, and yellows, creating a peaceful feel. The artist's use of colour and composition captures the charm of the scene.
History & Provenance
The painting was part of the 'Recording Britain' project, a wartime initiative to document Britain's changing landscape. It was created during the Second World War, when artists were commissioned to record significant scenes and buildings.
Context
The 'Recording Britain' project was funded by the Pilgrim Trust and directed by Sir Kenneth Clark, aiming to preserve a sense of national heritage amidst wartime disruption.
Artist & collection
Artist
Barbara Mildred Jones (25 December 1912 – 28 August 1978) was an English artist, writer and mural painter. She is known for curating the exhibition Black Eyes and Lemonade (1951) and her book The Unsophisticated Arts (1951).
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