Blitz Memories Brought to Life in Edward King Art Show at Portsmouth Museum
Portsmouth’s dark wartime past bursts alive through paint in a stunning new exhibition. Opening Thursday 24 March, Edward King: A Life in Art at Portsmouth Museum showcases around 70 paintings capturing the city during the Blitz.
Artist Who Witnessed the Blitz
Edward King lived in Portsmouth during WWII, immortalising the devastation left by air raids. His haunting Blitz series forms the heart of this gripping display, joined by photos, archival treasures, and objects from the city’s collections.
Many buildings King painted were later demolished during post-war rebuilding. The exhibition also highlights his charming works of houseboats at 1 and tranquil scenes from St James’ Hospital, where he stayed from 1926 until his death in 1951.
From Punch Magazine to Van Gogh
Born in 1862, King studied at the Slade School of Art alongside greats like Walter Sickert. He rubbed shoulders with legends including James McNeill Whistler and John Atkinson Grimshaw, and reportedly influenced a young Vincent Van Gogh, who admired King’s “striking, powerful virile drawing.”
King’s impressionistic style shines in his Blitz paintings, perfectly echoing the shattered brickwork and ruined architecture of wartime Portsmouth.
Tragedy and Triumph in Art
Early in his career, King’s illustrations graced Punch magazine and the Illustrated London News. But in 1925, the death of his wife plunged him into a breakdown. He was admitted to St James’ Hospital, where art became his therapy and lifeline.
“This unique collection is a fascinating combination of fine art and local history,” said Cllr Linda Symes, Portsmouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure & Sport. “King captured an important piece of Portsmouth’s history, the devastation caused by the Blitz, which ultimately shaped the city as we know it today. I hope people take the opportunity to admire his work and see how our city once was.”
Don’t Miss This Free Exhibition
The Edward King display runs until spring 2017. Portsmouth Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm. Admission is free—so don’t miss your chance to step back in time and see Portsmouth through King’s eyes.
