Vanessa Bell was an English painter and interior designer and a central figure in the Bloomsbury Group, a collective of writers, artists, and intellectuals who were active in London during the early 20th century, known for her modernist style and her innovative approach to design.
Domestic Scenes, Landscapes and Still Life’s
Bell's paintings often depicted domestic scenes, landscapes and Still Life’s and were characterised by their bold use of colour and form. She was heavily influenced by the Post-Impressionist movement and the work of artists such as Cézanne and Matisse. Bell was also a talented designer and worked on a number of interior design projects throughout her career.
THE OUSE NEAR PIDDINGHOE. Oil on canvas 37.5 x 4cm.
Bought for £6,500, 13th Oct 2021 at Lawrences Auctioneers, Crewkerne.
- Piddinghoe is about 7 miles from Charleston, Sussex. Bell moved to Charleston with Duncan Grant, in 1916, whereupon it became the rural retreat for the Bloomsbury Group.
In addition to her work as a painter and designer, Bell was also an important figure in the Bloomsbury Group. She was the sister of writer Virginia Woolf and was romantically involved with fellow Bloomsbury Group member Duncan Grant. The group was known for its liberal views on sexuality and gender and for its emphasis on personal relationships and individual creativity.
Today, Bell is recognized as one of the most important British painters of the early 20th century and her work continues to be celebrated for its modernist style and innovative approach to design.