James Lawrence Isherwood (1917-1989) - impressionist and expressionist

James Lawrence Isherwood (1917-1989) was a British painter whose work captured the diversity of the human experience, particularly focusing on Lancashire’s working-class life, historical subjects, and portraits of the famous. Born into humble beginnings as the son of a cobbler in Wigan, Lancashire, Isherwood grew up in near poverty, an experience that deeply influenced his later works. His early education took place at the Wigan School of Art, where he studied from 1934-1938, and again between 1947-1953, developing a unique style that would see him become a prominent figure in the British art world. He was elected a fellow of The Royal Society of Arts in 1955, the year his father died. His mother Lily or ‘Mother Lily’ as he referred to her, was with him till her death in 1971.

James Lawrence Isherwood’s art was incredibly diverse, impressionist in style, reflecting the many facets of British life and the working class, particularly in the North. He famously portrayed Lancashire’s working classes in their everyday attire—clogs and shawls—as well as capturing the richness of Welsh castles, lush florals, and portraits of royalty and the celebrated elite. His paintings depicted starkly contrasting social realities, providing a compelling commentary on class and identity, many Wigan Street and industrial scenes painted in bright colours or characters trudging home in dark rainy blues and blacks.

A master of self-promotion, Isherwood became known for his bold and often provocative actions and paintings. One notable incident occurred in the 1960s when he painted singer Dusty Springfield in the nude. When Springfield’s agent objected, Isherwood humorously covered her breasts with a duster. Another memorable moment was his protest against traffic wardens in which he painted the Minister of Transport, Barbara Castle, naked, adorned with traffic signals. Isherwood’s controversial approach to art and publicity extended to his famous full-frontal nude of TV campaigner Mary Whitehouse, which was purchased by Sir Hugh Carleton Greene, former director-general of the BBC.

His works are part of many prestigious collections, including the Herbert Art Gallery, Hereford Art Gallery, Salford Art Gallery, Stockport Art Gallery, Stoke-on-Trent Art Gallery, Wigan Arts and Heritage Service, Warrington Museum and Art Gallery, and even the collection of the then, HRH The Prince of Wales, now King Charles III, who purchased one of his seascapes during his time as an undergraduate at Cambridge.

Isherwood struggled to sell his paintings during his lifetime and battled with alcohol. However, he had the support of LS Lowry, who famously only bought art he liked. Lowry purchased one of Isherwood's paintings for £5. James Isherwood’s art seem to have an enduring popularity with Modern British collectors.

Known for signing his works with the inscription “Isherwood” often accompanied by the year which he tended to put in front of his signature. Isherwood’s art remains a testament to his personal experiences and unflinching exploration of British culture, making a lasting impact on the British art market.