Liverpool Walker Art Gallery

[Sue H]

Morning All

Question and a bit of background

William James Churchill was born on 21 August 1865 in Bilston Staffordshire. He died on 8 June 1949 in Rhyl, Flintshire, at the age of 83. He is the father of my early question (William and Nellie)

He was a Comedian/Music Hall Artiste and the main attraction in Llandudno from 1885 or early. His father also was a highly successful entertainer in Liverpool Theatres and further a field.

Natalie has traced them way back and until their deaths in Theatrical Newspapers which write of a glittering careers for the whole of the family!!


Natalie has discovered an article about Billy as he was affectionately known that he was also an accomplished Artist......no end to his skills apparently


It states in the newspaper article he studied in Liverpool Walker Art Gallery in or around 1885 onwards for about three years in Landscape Painting. He gave it up when his stage career took off big time. However he did continue through his life to paint......in 1924 an article was written ....that when two of his troupe retired/left he gave them each a painting he had done especially for them.

So I’m trying to find out......would there be records anywhere to back up this in the Walker Art Gallery?

Oh and by any chance anyone got one in their loft!!!!!!

Suexx

[MaryA]

First I've heard of such a thing happening, but doesn't surprise me. I would make enquiries direct with the Walker Art Gallery itself to ask if they have any sort of archives department. https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/walker-art-gallery Good luck and I'd be interested to hear what they say.

[Sue H]

Hi Mary

Did that.....but hadn’t heard so wonder if anyone knew more.

Will let you know

Sue xx

[MaryA]

Up to you to scroll through the RO catalogue, just entering the name throws up 1166 entries.

I would also imagine that there might be some references in the newspapers.

[Sue H]

Hi Mary

Think it was me this time!!

Anyway in now

Just to let you know. Did contact the art gallery who said they’d have a look but would take longer than normal because of working hours. However on a group site I saw a photo of The Liverpool Art School......I think this is more likely don’t you.

[MaryA]

Did contact the art gallery who said they’d have a look but would take longer than normal because of working hours.

That's understandable at the moment, isn't it.

However on a group site I saw a photo of The Liverpool Art School......I think this is more likely don’t you.

That sounds very likely to me, although this now appears to be a restaurant, check the RO to see if they have any records deposited or perhaps the Liverpool School of Art an Design, part of the University might be able to help.