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Routemaster bus, 1951. Creator: Shirley Markham
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Routemaster bus, 1951. Creator: Shirley Markham
Routemaster bus, 1951. Iconic double-decker London bus. Shirley Markham (1931-1999) studied Graphic Design and Illustration at Central School of Art in London from 1950-1952. The writer, artist, poet, and illustrator Mervyn Peake (1911-1968) was one of her tutors, and her style of drawing was also influenced by other British illustrators such as Edward Ardizzone, Quentin Blake and Edward Bawden. Markham spent time in the Dolomite Mountains in Italy, and also visited Rome, sketching classical buildings. After graduating from Central, she worked as a graphic designer, producing book illustrations, cartoons for comics, menus and programmes. She gave up her promising career however when she got married in 1957. Middle-class women at that time were expected to devote their energies to bringing up children and running the home, and despite her obvious talent, she lacked the confidence to return to illustration. Her portfolio remained in the family attic for many years, but now her work is published here for the first time
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Media ID 18265849
© Shirley Markham Collection / Heritage-Images
1950s Double Decker Fifties London Transport Markham Omnibus Public Transport Retro Shirley Shirley Jane Shirley Jane Markham Shirley Markham Shirley Waite Two Decker Waite Routemaster
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This print showcases a timeless symbol of London's transportation history - the iconic Routemaster bus. Captured in 1951 by the talented artist and illustrator Shirley Markham, this double-decker beauty stands as a testament to her exceptional skills and creative vision. Markham's artistic journey began at the renowned Central School of Art in London, where she studied Graphic Design and Illustration under influential tutors like Mervyn Peake. Drawing inspiration from esteemed British illustrators such as Edward Ardizzone, Quentin Blake, and Edward Bawden, Markham developed a distinctive style that would become her signature. During her time in Italy's Dolomite Mountains and Rome, Markham immersed herself in sketching classical buildings, further enriching her artistic repertoire. After graduating from Central School of Art, she embarked on an impressive career as a graphic designer, lending her talents to book illustrations, comic cartoons, menus, and programs. Sadly though not uncommon for middle-class women during that era when societal expectations prevailed over personal ambitions - Markham chose to sacrifice her promising career upon marrying in 1957. Despite possessing undeniable talent and potential success awaiting her return to illustration after starting a family; self-doubt hindered any resurgence. For years following this decision marked by unfulfilled dreams but preserved memories; Markham's portfolio lay dormant within the confines of the family attic until now. Today we proudly present these previously unseen works for all to appreciate – paying homage to an extraordinary artist whose legacy deserves recognition beyond domestic boundaries or commercial endeavors
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