The Cow and Calf Rocks, Ilkley

The Eurich family had recently moved from Bradford out to Ilkley for his mother’s health as she suffered from TB. At first Richard was a bit depressed as he missed the activity of the city. But he soon came to appreciate the hills and the quality of the light. This painting in its freshness shows how he took to heart the words of a Saturday tutor who five years previously had told him: “Put your paint on and LEAVE IT!” He had already come across Cezanne’s pictures and was amazed and moved by them… and astonished to find his work generally regarded with distaste. Here, Richard at 18 has learned something from Cezanne’s methods. A painting to be proud of!

Richard gave this painting to his older sister Margaret for her room at Bedford College in 1921.