Dartmouth Artists

Dartmouth is known for its rich maritime history, charming streets and scenic landscapes. But beyond its natural beauty and historical significance, Dartmouth has long been a haven for artists, both past and present. From renowned marine painters to contemporary creators, the town has nurtured a vibrant artistic community that continues to thrive today. Let’s take a journey through Dartmouth’s artistic heritage and discover some of the key figures who have left their mark on this coastal gem. 

Historic Artists of Dartmouth:

Gordon Onslow Ford

One of the last surviving members of the 1930s Paris surrealist group surrounding André Breton, Gordon Onslow Ford had a fascinating connection to Dartmouth. After the death of his father at the age of 14, Ford was sent to the Royal Naval College at Dartmouth, where the ocean left a profound impact on him. His early works often depicted ocean scenes, and the metaphor of taking a “voyage” became a significant theme in his later paintings. Ford’s time in Dartmouth was a formative period in his life, shaping his artistic direction and laying the groundwork for his contributions to the surrealist movement. 

John L Wimbush

John L. Wimbush, a landscape and portrait painter, moved to Dartmouth around 1902. Known for his work exhibited at the Royal Academy, Wimbush made a significant mark in Dartmouth by painting the town’s mayor, Charles Peek, in 1912. This painting, one of his last works, is currently held at the Dartmouth Guildhall. Although details about his life in Dartmouth are somewhat elusive, it’s known that Wimbush lived in the town for many years, contributing to the local community as a benefactor. His passing also causes some confusion, it was initially thought that he was laid to rest in Totnes , but a newspaper report in the Exeter & Plymouth Gazette in 1914 recalls that he was actually buried in Townstal, a testament to his deep connection to Dartmouth. 

William Cumming Henley

A self-taught scientist, artist and passionate collector, William Cumming Henley was born, educated and died in Dartmouth. Henley’s contributions to the town extend far beyond his artistic endeavours; he was also a poet and writer. His lifetime collection of artefacts is now housed in the Dartmouth Museum, forming “The Henley Trail,” which showcases his diverse interests and talents. The trail invites visitors to explore Henley’s work through a hands-on exhibit designed to engage both young and old. His legacy in Dartmouth is a testament to his wide-ranging curiosity and commitment to lifelong learning. 

C.J. Way

C.J. Way, born in Dartmouth, was a landscape and seascape painter who later travelled extensively across North America. His early artistic talent was nurtured in London at Somerset House and the South Kensington School of Art under the guidance of Sir Richard Redgrave. Although Way eventually settled in Canada, his roots in Dartmouth remained a significant part of his identity. His works, which span the scenic vistas of Canada, the United States, and Europe, reflect a profound connection to the natural world. Way’s journey from Dartmouth to the wider world is a testament to the town’s ability to produce artists whose influence extends far beyond its borders. 

Current Artists of Dartmouth:  

Simon Drew

Simon Drew is a name that’s synonymous with Dartmouth’s contemporary art scene. An artist and illustrator with a unique sense of humour, his work is instantly recognisable for its witty and quirky style. His prints, which often combine animals, puns and wordplay, have gained a wide following. Simon Drew has been a resident of Dartmouth for many years, contributing to the town’s cultural life with his distinctive and light-hearted approach to art. Drew boasts his own gallery on Foss Street where you can view and purchase his work.  

Paul Barclay

Paul Barclay moved to Dartmouth in 1989, initially working as Senior Dockmaster at Dart Marina. He later focused on art, becoming a leading South West artist. In 2003, he designed the Port of Dartmouth Regatta Programme Cover, and his yacht canvas designs caught international attention. He launched his yachtwear label and studio, Nautical Voyages, in 2005, and Barclay is now a significant figure in nautical art and design in Dartmouth. Discover Barclay’s work at his studio gallery on Oxford Street. 

John Gillo

A popular artist in Dartmouth’s art scene, John Gillo studied Fine Art at Brighton School of Art. After teaching for several years, he established his own gallery in Dartmouth in 1976. Gillo became well-known for his watercolours, capturing the charm of Dartmouth and its surroundings. In recent years, he has shifted to working with acrylics on canvas or board, continuing to draw inspiration from the local landscape. Though he has now retired from managing the gallery, Gillo remains active as an artist, continuing to paint and contribute to Dartmouth’s rich artistic tradition. Find a range of Gillo’s work at Baxter’s Gallery.  

Jilly Sutton  

Jilly Sutton, a sculptor trained at Exeter College of Art, has carved out a unique place in Dartmouth’s art community. Her career began in Nigeria, where the local art forms, particularly carvings and textiles, deeply influenced her work. Today, she finds inspiration in the ancient trees and woodlands surrounding her studio on the banks of the River Dart. Using locally sourced timber, Sutton carves large heads and figures, often sandblasting and liming the wood to enhance its natural grainy texture. Her work, known for its serenity and sometimes abstract nature, has been exhibited internationally and is held in both public and private collections. You can find Sutton’s art at Coombe Art Gallery on Foss Street. 

Sue Brown

Living beside the River Dart in Dartmouth, Sue Brown draws inspiration from the boats, tracks in the water, and the ever-changing light and shapes that surround her. Much of her work is created en plein air, allowing her to capture the sensory experience of the environment directly onto her canvas. She works with a variety of mediums including acrylics, oils, spray paints, ink and charcoal, often combining them to create rich, textured layers. Recently, Sue has been integrating printmaking into her art, adding another dimension to her expressive and dynamic style. Her work invites viewers to embark on a journey through space and place, conveyed through her energetic mark-making and vibrant use of colour. Head to Baxter’s Gallery to see some of Brown’s work! 

Dartmouth’s artistic heritage is as rich and varied as the town itself. From the marine painters of the past who captured the rugged beauty of the coast to the contemporary artists who continue to find inspiration in the town’s landscapes, Dartmouth is a place where art and history intertwine. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, exploring the works of these artists offers a deeper appreciation for the town’s cultural fabric. 

To discover even more about the artist community in Dartmouth, why not head to one of the galleries, or check out our galleries page here. Stay updated on all things Dartmouth by liking us on Facebook and following us on Instagram and X. We’ll let you know about our latest competitions, blog posts, events and more!