Early Life and Training

Sir William Newzam Prior Nicholson, a renowned British painter, was born on February 5, 1872, in Newark-on-Trent. He was the youngest son of William Newzam Nicholson, an industrialist and Conservative MP, and his wife Annie Elizabeth Prior. From the age of 9, Nicholson attended Magnus Grammar School, where he received art lessons from William Cubley, a painter and politician.

Artistic Career

Nicholson's artistic career can be divided into several phases, each marked by a unique style and medium. In his early twenties, he collaborated with his brother-in-law James Pryde on poster design and graphic work, producing innovative posters that showcased their boldness of outline and simplicity of treatment.

• The Beggarstaff Partnership (1893-1898): Nicholson's collaboration with James Pryde resulted in a series of revolutionary posters, including Don Quixote (1895) and Harper's Magazine (1895).
• Woodcut and Wood-Engraving (1900s): Nicholson evolved out of the posters, developing a personal style that he exploited through woodcut and wood-engraving techniques.
• Painting (1910s): He concentrated on painting, encouraged by Whistler, and first exhibited as a painter at the International Society.

Notable Works and Exhibitions

Some of Nicholson's notable works include:

• Lady in Furs, Mme. P. (c.1907), a portrait showcasing his mastery of capturing the essence of his subjects.
• The Lowestoft Bowl (1911), a still-life painting that demonstrates his attention to detail and use of color.
• Study for 'Plaza de Toros, Malaga' (1935), a landscape that highlights his ability to capture the atmosphere of a place.

Museums and Collections

Nicholson's works can be found in various museums, including:

• Tate Britain, which features several of his artworks, including The Lowestoft Bowl (1911) and Lady in Furs, Mme. P. (c.1907).
• National Galleries of Scotland, which has an extensive collection of Nicholson's paintings, including The Young Polo Player (1920s).

Links to Relevant Pages on WahooArt.com:

• Sir William Newzam Prior Nicholson | 3 Artworks
• Discovering the Masterpieces of Blake Museum (United Kingdom)

Wikipedia: Sir William Newzam Prior Nicholson