The History of L.S. Lowry
His art, known for its “matchstick men” figures was deeply influenced by his education at the Manchester Municipal college of Art and later Salford School of Art.
Lowry’s distinct style developed from his observation of industrial life during his day job, and dispite initial criticism, he achieved significant recognition before his death, famously rejecting several British honours.
Birth and background: November 1887, in Stretford, Manchester, Lowry was the son of a clerk and a pianist. His family moved to the industrial area of Pendlebury in 1909 due to financial difficulties, a move that deeply affected his parents.
His Story
Artistic training: He enjoyed drawing from a young age and took private lessons. He later attended evening classes at the Manchester Municipal College of Art, where his tutor Adolphe Valette introduced him to impressionism, He also attended the Salford School of Art.
After leaving School, Lowry worked as a clerk and became a rent collector for the Pall Mall Property Company in 1910, a job he held until his retirement in 1952. This role provided him with direct exposure to the working-class communities he would later paint. The Indistrial landscape of Pendlebury became the turning point for his artistic career around 1912.
Industrial Scenes - and that song
He was encouraged to paint on a white backgrond after a tutor’s comment that he work was too dark. He primarily used five colors: ivory black, flake white, yellow ochre, prussian blue and vermillion.
While best known for his industrial scenes with “matchstick” men, he also painted mysterious landscapes, portraits, and seascapes.
Despite initial criticism labeling his a “naive Sunday painter” Lowry’s work gained significant recognition during his life time. He is known for rejecting five British honours, including a Knighthood, stating he didn’t acre for formal recognition.
Lowry died on 23rd February 1976. His legacy is celebrated through a dedicated gallery, The Lowry in Salford Quays, and films like Mrs Lowry & Son.
His song “matchstick men 7 matchstalk Cats & Dogs” was a number-one hit in 1978.
