Edward Burra 1905-1976

Valley and River, Northumberland  1972 In his later years, Burra was taken on driving tours of Britain by his sister Anne. His landscapes were inspired by real places: in this case, a valley south of the Cheviot Hills near Alnwick. He said he was fascinated by the lines on the hills that play a dominant role in the painting. Such depictions of 'unspoilt' country were contrasted with images of motorways and heavy trucks, reflecting the artist's  lament at the destruction of Britain.