Laurence Stephen Lowry, R.A. (1887-1976)

An Industrial Town, 1974

Offset lithograph on wove paper, after the original oil painting from 1944 of the same title

Signed ‘L.S. Lowry’ lower right and numbered from the edition of 500 lower left in pencil

Published by Peinture Ltd.

Size: 18 x 24 in. (46.5 x 61.5 cm.)

Condition: Excellent

An Industrial Town stands as a prime example of L.S. Lowry's iconic urban landscapes. It embodies his lifelong commitment to capturing the essence of industrial England. Lowry once expressed his artistic mission succinctly, saying, "My ambition was to portray the industrial scene with the human element." This piece, focusing on the bustling city life and the juxtaposition of humanity against the backdrop of factories and smokestacks, vividly brings Lowry's ambition to life.

Lowry's unique style is instantly recognizable, marked by his populated scenes with "matchstick" figures engaged in everyday activities. This painting, like many of his others, serves as a historical document that offers insight into an era where industry was a defining feature of the English landscape. It's a testament to Lowry's dedication to his subject matter and his ability to convey the vitality of city life through his art.

This particular work, originally created in 1944, offers a window into the past, depicting a time when the industrial cityscape was the lifeblood of communities. The painting evokes the labour and toil that characterized the era, as well as the resilience and spirit of its inhabitants. The church, a recurring element in Lowry's work, stands as a silent witness to the march of time, juxtaposed against the ever-present factories.

The Manchester School of Art alumnus captures the vibrancy of the industrial cityscape, not through romanticized or idealized imagery, but through a more authentic lens. Lowry's depiction of the industrial townscape is both a personal reflection and a broader commentary on the changing face of Britain during the mid-20th century. His work invites viewers to consider the industrial landscape not just as a setting for labour but as a canvas where the stories of its inhabitants are etched.

Lowry's humble remarks about his inspiration reveal his deep connection to his surroundings. Despite the often bleak industrial scenes, he did not see ugliness but rather the stark beauty of reality. Lowry's words, "I didn't see the beauty of the Manchester streets until I was into the countryside," highlight his unique perspective. It was in the contrast between urban and rural that he found the profound beauty of the industrial townscape, a beauty that he masterfully translates onto canvas, leaving a lasting impression of the era's spirit.