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After fifteen years of dealing privately in London, Modern British picture specialists, Ian Rastrick Fine Art have opened new premises at 38 Holywell Hill, St Albans. Originally concentrating on the graphic work of First World War artists such as Paul Nash and CRW Nevinson, the gallery now deals in works from the post- impressionism of Walter Sickert to the abstract modernism of Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth and Ben Nicholson.

“It is a period that is being recognised more and more as a high point in British Art” says Ian Rastrick. “We can now talk comfortably about Paul Nash in the same breath as Constable or Turner. To drive out from Herts into Bucks and beyond one is constantly reminded of Nash’s landscape vision.” However, unlike Constable or Turner, Nash’s works can still be acquired for hundreds rather than tens of thousands of pounds.

Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas have a strong link with Twentieth Century British Art. The sculptor Henry Moore moved to Hertfordshire in 1940 after his home and studio in Hampstead had been damaged in the blitz. He remained at Perry Green for the rest of his life and on his death gave the estate to the Henry Moore Foundation, which continues to exhibit his works in the beautiful grounds. During the 1950’s an inspired Hertfordshire County Council commissioned sculptures from both Moore and the internationally renowned Barbara Hepworth, whose 1951 sculpture for the then Hatfield Technical College can still be seen.

Moving nearer in time, the abstract artist Alan Davie, one of the first British artists to encounter Jackson Pollock, still makes his home in Herts and now in his nineties is still producing wonderful paintings.

Ian Rastrick Fine Art is currently exhibiting a selection of works by Modern British artists, including Paul Nash, Henry Moore, Ben Nicholson and Barbara Hepworth.

Ian Rastrick Fine Art,
38 Holywell Hill, St.Albans

01727 840043

Open Wednesday – Saturday 11am-5pm, Sunday 11am – 3pm or by appointment.