James Fitton, R.A.
London Market, 1973
Oil on board
Unframed: 60.3 x 82.5 cm.; 23¾ x 32½in.
Framed: 76.5 x 99 cm.;
Framed: 76.5 x 99 cm.;
Signed 'Fitton' (lower right)
WB4597
Copyright The Artist
James Fitton RA (1899–1982) was an influential British painter, illustrator, and commercial designer celebrated for his vibrant oil paintings and iconic poster designs. Born in Oldham, Lancashire, Fitton studied at...
James Fitton RA (1899–1982) was an influential British painter, illustrator, and commercial designer celebrated for his vibrant oil paintings and iconic poster designs. Born in Oldham, Lancashire, Fitton studied at the Manchester School of Art alongside L. S. Lowry before moving to London to continue his training. He successfully bridged commercial and fine art, creating striking advertising campaigns for London Transport while developing a modern canvas style characterized by bold palettes and gentle social caricature. Committed to socialist ideals, he co-founded the Artists' International Association in 1933 and contributed political cartoons to left-wing journals. Despite his anti-establishment politics, Fitton integrated into the British art establishment, becoming a full Royal Academician in 1954 and serving as a trustee for the Tate Gallery and National Portrait Gallery. He lived and worked for over fifty years from his cottage in Dulwich, London, shared with his wife, Margaret 'Peggy' Cook, another artist.
Provenance
The One Foundation, Jersey;Their sale, Christie's, London, 14 December 2012, lot 425;
Private collection (purchased from the above);
Their sale, Christie's, London, 2 March 2021, lot 171;
Private collection (purchased from the above)
Exhibitions
London, Royal Academy, 1973, no. 101;London, Dulwich Picture Gallery, James Fitton, R.A., 1899-1982, November 1986 - January 1987, no. 40 (illustrated in exhibition catalogue p.161).
