
Not the most obvious name to spring to mind when mentioning great British artists, yet G F Watts is the man behind many beautifully engaging and recognisable works, and though less than a household name today he has apparently been called ‘England’s Michelangelo’.

If the name of George Frederick Watts isn’t instantly recognisable I think this image provides a real ah-ha moment.
His richly symbolic paintings often reveal a visionary’s perspective and really deserve a closer look, though it’s perhaps his portraits that might draw the greatest admiration.

Dear Kitty has devoted to an excellent post to the man and I was particularly interested to read this part:
“His socialist principles were the guiding force behind the creation of the gallery (the Watts Gallery in Surrey). Watts not only wanted to encourage a rich community spirit to develop through the language of art but also to create an educational centre which would provide free access to the art world for the benefit of the working class for the first time.”
Hmm, a man after my own heart then. Click the link below to read her excellent article in full, but before you go have a look at this short clip looking at the Watts Chapel (designed and built by his wife Mary Watts) and tell me it doesn’t knock your socks off – I challenge you.
Both the gallery and the chapel can be found in Compton, Surrey, just off the A3 south of Guildford.
- http://dearkitty1.wordpress.com/2011/06/16/english-painter-gf-watts-exhibited/
- http://www.wattsgallery.org.uk/
Jill, you are just a mine of information about interesting people that I have never heard of. These are very beautiful posts and I really appreciate your blog.
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🙂 I really appreciate hearing that from you, Malcolm! You are the man when it comes to interesting and informative xx
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Interesting profile. The design of the chapel is exquisite.
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I know! It’s wonderful finding little gems like this, and always good to hear of others enjoying them, too 🙂
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Amazing! Thank you for your research and wonderful findings!
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I’m glad you enjoyed it! 🙂
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