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

Station Approach, 1972-3

Offset lithograph on wove paper, after the original oil painting from 1962 of the same title

Signed ‘L.S. Lowry’ lower right in pencil and numbered from the edition of 850

Stamped by the Fine Art Trade Guild

Published by the Adam Collection Ltd.

Size: 16 x 20 in.

Provenance Private Collection, U.K.

Condition: Excellent

The present work, "Station Approach," offers a vivid and bustling snapshot of Manchester's city centre. The scene is set against the backdrop of Piccadilly Railway Station, capturing the dynamic interplay of pedestrians and traffic. The painting conveys the palpable energy of city life, with trams gliding by and the public navigating the urban landscape. Lowry's attention to detail brings the environment to life, as he skilfully depicts the overcast sky and the diverse array of figures against a muted colour palette, imbued with shades of industrial grey.

The painting is a testament to Lowry's fascination with the human condition, as evidenced by his inclusion of people from various walks of life depicted against the urban backdrop. Through his signature stick figures, he brings a sense of rhythm and motion to the scene, capturing the essence of the city's pulse.

Lowry's artistry extends to his portrayal of landmarks and architectural elements within the urban landscape. In "Station Approach," he includes the recognizable tower of the Church of St. Mary the Virgin. His depiction of the church stands as a stark contrast to the looming presence of the prison tower, which adds a sombre note to the otherwise lively composition. The smoke stacks that punctuate the skyline serve as a reminder of the city's industrial heritage and Lowry's interest in the interplay between the built environment and the lives of those within it.

The London and North Western Railway Exchange Station, built in 1884 and closed in 1969, serves as an important historical reference in Lowry's work. The station, once a vital hub for travel from Liverpool to Leeds and Hull, is emblematic of the changing face of transportation and urban development. The station's presence in the painting highlights Lowry's commitment to documenting the evolving urban landscape and serves as a historical record of the era's infrastructure.

Lowry's contributions to art are not confined to the canvas; his influence and legacy extend to the cultural fabric of the nation, providing a window into the life and times of 20th-century England on the rural landscape.