L.S. Lowry's journey as an artist was defined by his deliberate break from traditional art education, forging a unique style that made him one of the most sought-after artists in the world.
Self-Taught Techniques
Lowry rejected the notion that art could only be mastered through formal academic training. While he did study at the Municipal College of Art in Manchester and the Salford School of Art, he largely taught himself the techniques that would define his style. He experimented with his own methods of painting, often using a palette knife instead of a brush and employing a limited colour palette dominated by whites, blacks, and greys.
Unique Vision of the Industrial Landscape
Rather than painting idyllic landscapes or classical subjects favoured by academic artists, Lowry chose to depict the gritty reality of the industrial landscape around him. His paintings captured the urban sprawl of factories, mills, and terraced houses, as well as the bustling activity of working-class life. One of his most celebrated pieces, 'Going to the Match,' depicts an urban industrial scene filled with the bustling movement of a large crowd. This artwork fetched £7,846,500 at auction in 2022, whilst setting a record for the highest price paid for a Lowry print when the lithograph version of the same painting sold in the same year.
Stylised Figures and Scenes
Lowry's figures, often referred to as "matchstick men," were a departure from the highly detailed, realistic figures favoured by academic painters. Instead, he depicted his subjects in a simplified, almost abstract manner, using basic shapes and lines to convey movement and emotion. His scenes were similarly stylised, with flattened perspectives and distorted proportions that lent them a sense of otherworldliness.
"The average price for a Lowry print has increased by approximately 700% skyrocketing from £500 to £4,000+ "
Emotional Depth and Social Commentary
While academic art often focused on aesthetic beauty or historical narratives, Lowry's work delved into the emotional and social realities of his time. His paintings captured the struggles and hardships of working-class life, as well as the sense of community and resilience that characterised industrial towns. One of his most renowned works, 'Sunday Afternoon', stands as a poignant example, fetching £6,290,000 at auction in March 2024.
Rejection of Formal Recognition
Despite his success and acclaim as an artist, Lowry remained indifferent to formal recognition from the art establishment. He declined prestigious honours such as a knighthood, preferring to focus on his work rather than seeking validation from others. This rejection of conventional measures of success further underscored his independence and determination to follow his own artistic path.
In breaking away from academic conventions, L.S. Lowry not only revolutionised the art world but also challenged the notion of what constituted "acceptable" subject matter and style in painting. His bold experimentation and refusal to conform paved the way for future generations of artists to embrace their unique visions and forge their own paths.
Discover more about L.S. Lowry by browsing through our collection online or scheduling an appointment for a closer look. Don't forget to explore our iconic collection, which includes the original drawing "Clocking on Time" highlighted in this blog post. The Iconic Collection also showcases works by renowned artists like Edgar Degas.
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