William Orpen and the Great war

This presentation will look at one of the war artists appointed under the official Government scheme run by the War Propaganda  Bureau. Born in Ireland in 1878 . William Orpen trained at the Slade school of Art and became one of leading British war artists. He captured scenes from the fighting on the Western Front and painted portraits of those served there. Orpen was the only war artist to publish a memoir of two and half years he spent in France. It has become a minor classic of First World War literature. He deeply admired the men who fought and died but was bitterly critical of politicians for their mismanagement of the conflict. Orpen's recollections and vivid images provide us with an evocative personal perspective on the Great War. 

Members of the WFA and non members alike are equally welcome. Any new visitors are guaranteed a friendly atmosphere and a warm welcome from a group of like minded enthusiasts. 

We ask a modest £5 donation on the door to defray costs, this will include a free tea or coffee and entry into our famous raffle.