Mandatory Reading List

In the vibrant tapestry of art history, certain names stand out, albeit sometimes temporarily, before fading into obscurity. Robert Colquhoun and Bobby MacBryde are two such artists, once prominent figures in the London art scene now largely forgotten, their legacy overshadowed by the passage of time. Author Damian Barr seeks to revive their story in his recent novel, diving deep into their lives and contributions.

Colquhoun and MacBryde were pivotal in the post-war art world, an era in which their contemporaries included icons such as Francis Bacon, Patrick Heron, and Lucian Freud. Despite the high regard from their peers and critics, the duo eventually succumbed to the ephemeral nature of fame. Their unique bond, both personal and professional, was mischaracterized by contemporary accounts that often downplayed their partnership to mere friendship, concealing deeper, more complex relationships.

In a 1949 Picture Post issue, Colquhoun and MacBryde were pictured alongside other luminary artists. Yet, as with many artists, time was not kind to their legacy. The allure of their works, much like the artists themselves, became footnotes in the grander narrative of art history. This erasure, though partially due to the evolving tastes and dynamics within the art world, belies the wonderful contribution they made during their time.

Artistic circles, much like any other social domain, are replete with stories of triumph and tragedy, of rise and fall. The tale of Colquhoun and MacBryde serves as a poignant reminder of the transient nature of fame and the timeless impact of creativity. Revisiting their story today, as Barr endeavors to do, invites reflection on the past and perhaps a renewed appreciation of their work, thus restoring them to their rightful place in the annals of art history.