The Cottage – John Shelley (1938–2020)

John Shelley is known for his dream-like, symbolist paintings of quintessentially British countryside, exemplified by this work, The Cottage.This work depicts a quaint countryside cottage, behind which a bridge over a stream leads to a lush forest. The work is a distinct snapshot of mid-century British life in the countryside, and exudes a sense of tranquility and unity with the natural world.

As is typical in Shelley’s works, the scene is rendered in exquisite detail. From the individual leaves of foliage in the foreground, to the indication of a gentle breeze fluttering the curtains in the cottage window, each element shines with care and attention. In fact, the detail is so intricate that it is even possible to read the little plaque on the front face of the cottage.

John Shelley
Born in Margate, England, John Shelley was a painter and jazz musician. Primarily known for his dream-like, quintessential English pastoral scenes, Shelley trained at Wimbledon School of Art where he developed his almost-surrealist style. After winning a British Institution Fund award in 1957, Shelley went on to develop his practice at the Slade School of Art in 1958.

Shelley noted the heavy influence of artists such as Samuel Palmer and Stanley Spencer on his work, whose imaginative as well as mystical depictions of rural, everyday life helped shape his compositions.

In 1960 John was called up for National Service with the RAF but continued to paint due to encouragement from his wife.

His successful submission of his painting The Visitation to the Royal Academy's Summer Exhibition of 1968, launched Shelley's career as a painter as he exhibited alongside artists such as Dod Procter, William Dring and Ruskin Spear. He would then go on to exhibit at the summer exhibition for many more years between 1968-1988.

Exhibitions
Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, 1968 - 1988

Museums
Tate Galleries
Contemporary Arts Society