Charles Shannon: The Rebirth Of The Arts

From the war's devastation, the figure of 'Arts,' portrayed as a woman with a sprig of bay leaves symbolising glory, emerges, with a rainbow of hope appearing above. Shannon, known for his paintings, lithographs, and illustrations, studied at the Lambeth School of Art, where he met his lifelong partner, Charles Ricketts. Together, they founded and edited The Dial magazine and Vale Press. Shannon's career was tragically cut short in 1929 due to an injury from a fall. This artwork is part of the Ministry of Information's 1917 series, The Great War: Britain's Efforts and Ideals, depicting Britain's war efforts comprehensively.

There is a strong theme of renewal in many of the Ideals; Charles Shannon’s ‘Rebirth of the Arts’ (ironically) embodies the anxiety that the barbarism of war eclipses artistic activity. Yet it holds promise that there will be a rebirth once the guns fall silent. Augustus John’s ‘The Dawn’ employs the same motif of a female nude gazing up at the heavens, away from the death and destruction below. There is even a child busy building at her feet, embodying hope for the future.

Dimensions: L 81cm x W 51cm

- Blind embossed stamp of British/royal coat of arms
- Includes a certificate of authenticity
- Print delivered flat
- Discounts cannot be applied to Efforts and Ideals lithographs
- Available for sale instore and online

  Other 'Ideals' in this series available for sale at IWM:

• - George Clausen: The Reconstruction Of Belgium
• - Edmund Dulac: Poland A Nation
• - Moria: Greiffenhagen The Restoration Of Alsace-Lorraine
• - Augustus John: The Dawn
• - Gerald Moira: The Restoration Of Serbia
• - William Nicholson: The End Of War
• - Charles Ricketts: Italia Redenta
• - William Rothenstein: The Triumph Of Democracy
• - Edmund Sullivan: The Reign Of Justice