Finding a Home at the Fry: Celebrating Art, Design, and Domestic Spaces

Curated by Ella Ravilious, granddaughter of renowned artists Eric Ravilious and Tirzah Garwood, the exhibition explores how artists' living spaces became an extension of their creative practice. Showcasing work from the gallery’s permanent collection, it highlights art and design created for, or inspired by, the domestic sphere.

A Home for Art 

From the 1930s onwards, North-West Essex—particularly the village of Great Bardfield—became a magnet for artists drawn by its picturesque buildings and affordable rents. Here, a vibrant creative community flourished, with Ravilious and Garwood sharing the Georgian Brick House with Edward and Charlotte Bawden. Soon, the village welcomed other influential artists, including John and Lucie Aldridge, Kenneth Rowntree, Michael Rothenstein, and Marianne Straub. The tradition continued into later decades with figures such as Bernard Cheese, Sheila Robinson, and Walter Hoyle, all contributing to a legacy that remains influential today. 

A Window into Artists' Homes 

Finding a Home at the Fry delves into the personal spaces of these artists, exploring their decorative choices—from rag rugs and oil lamps to hand-printed wallpapers. The exhibition opens with intricate paper designs by Tirzah Garwood and Charlotte Bawden, while further sections reveal how artists captured domestic life through still-life paintings and playful interpretations of home interiors, such as Edward Bawden’s charming doll’s house interior. 

As well as being creators, these artists were collectors, championing craftsmanship and good design to enrich their surroundings. In recognition of this, the exhibition also features specially curated cabinets displaying treasured objects that reflect the artists’ passions and inspirations.

The Legacy Lives On 

The spirit of Great Bardfield’s artistic pioneers continues today, notably in the work of Sir Grayson Perry. Drawing from his Essex roots, Perry’s ceramic, textile, and tapestry works challenge traditional art-world conventions while celebrating craft and design—echoing the ethos of his artistic predecessors.

For four decades, The Fry Art Gallery has been dedicated to preserving and showcasing the work of North-West Essex artists, thanks to the generosity of artists, donors, and supporters. As proud sponsors of Finding a Home at the Fry, Sworders is delighted to celebrate this milestone exhibition and the remarkable legacy of creativity it represents.

The exhibition runs from 6 April to 26 October 2025 at The Fry Art Gallery, 19a Castle St, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1BD.

For more information contact: 

info@fryartgallery.org 

www.fryartgallery.org