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Aviation History
1942
1942 - 2253.PDF
OCTOBER 29TH, 1942 FLIGHT 465 WAR ARTISTS' EXHIBITION Recent Additions to the National Gallery's Collection of War Pictures IS the ghost of chivalry dead, or does it, even in these days of double-crossing and mass murder, still live in the hearts of free people? This question, I think, can* best be answered by a visit to the Exhibition of New War Pictures, which was opened last week at the National Gallery in London. Composed entirely of the work of official war artists, the pictures show many aspects of the present struggle. Some are fine impressions of life in the Middle East, some depict miners working in the pits, some give a lasting record of the war at sea, on the home front and, of course, in the air. Notable amongst the latter are the last efforts of the late Eric Ravilious, who was recently killed in aerial combat while searching for material under actual battle conditions. His interpretations of Spitfires at daybreak, a scene in an R.A.F. Mess, and " Elementary Flying Train- K1 ing," in which a Tiger Moth is shown taking off with a pupil, are splendid examples of the artist's own particular style. "Corporal Steddiford's Mobile Pigeon Loft" was also much admired, though the subject was by no means an easy one. Eric Kennington's pastels of flying personnel are strongly represented, and many famous " aces" watch silently over the scenes of past glories. "Old Kut" and his friend, Squadron Leader McLachlan, D.S.O., especially caught my eye. Perhaps the most original exhibits are those by R. V. Pitchforth depicting the more neglected, but most im portant side of flying, the "works." Here I saw a vivid study called " Fired-out Engine," showing the smoulder ing remains of a radial engine after a crash. A scene showing mechanics at work on a Bristol Hercules engine, and several impressions of damaged airscrews awaiting repair, complete the collection of Pitchforth's water-colours, proving that art can quite easily be applied to things mechani cal as well as animated objects. One gathers from pictures like these the great part played by the ground staff, who mend, service, and keep the aircraft in the air. Equally vital work is done in this direction by the W.A.A.F., and in the Exhibition their task is not forgotten. Dame Laura Knight pays tribute with an oil painting, "In For Repair," which typifies the spirit of the Corps. W.A.A.F.s are shown mending a damaged balloon, while the shades of evening creep up behind them. They must hurry or night will fall before they finish. In "The Cat Blister," also, Christopher Perkins has captured the excitement that lives 1 "~ "" 'Spitfires—early morning" by the late Eric Ravilious In "The Cat's Blister" by C. Perkins. 'Fit. Lt. Kuttelwascher " by Eric Kennington.
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