Seago

Edward Seago (1910-1974)

Edward Seago’s paintings represent some of Britain’s finest examples of Impressionism from the twentieth Century. Born in Norwich on 31st March 1910, Seago was the son of a local coal merchant. At a young age he painted as he was often confined at home with a heart condition. He joined the Royal Drawing Society and won an award at the age of 14. The artist was often considered self-taught, but he did take instruction from Royal Academician Bertram Priestman (1868-1951). He became known for his evocative landscapes and maritime scenes. His paintings captured the natural beauty of rural England as well as the grandeur of Paris and Venice. Seago was one of the most respected and beloved landscape painters of his time. His ability to convey mood through light, atmosphere and delicate brushwork earned him a devoted following among collectors, including members of the British royal family. His art has been exhibited worldwide and his inventive use of oils and watercolours is instantly recognizable. His work shows a blend of technical mastery and emotional depth, showcasing his love for nature and the outdoors. His colour palette was generally muted and natural, favoring soft earth tones, greys and blues. He used these to capture the subtleties of light and weather, either conveying a sense of calm or the fleeting beauty of a sunset and even the brooding power of a storm. He was also involved in the publication of many books throughout his career. In 1934 he published a book entitled ‘Sons of Sawdust’ which told of circus life in Western Ireland. Forty-two of his paintings were used to illustrate a collection of poems by John Masefield in 1936, as well as in 1937 and 1942. Seago also wrote books related to the World Wars, and an autobiography entitled ‘A Canvas to Cover in 1947’. During the Second World War Seago served with the Royal Engineers and often painted in Italy with Field-Marshall Lord Alexander.