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Elizabeth Forbes

1859–1912

Volendam, Holland, from the Zuidende ?1895
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In Tate Britain

Historic and Modern British Art

In Tate Britain

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Biography

Elizabeth Adela Forbes (née Armstrong; 29 December 1859 – 16 March 1912) was a Canadian painter who was primarily active in the UK. She often featured children in her paintings and School Is Out (painted in Newlyn) is one of her most popular works. She was friends with the artists James Abbott McNeill Whistler and Walter Sickert, both of whom influenced her work. Her etchings in particular are said to show the influence of Whistler.

After studying and working in continental Europe, Forbes settled in Newlyn, England, where she raised her son and established a school with her husband, Stanhope Forbes. She had her works exhibited in notable shows and won medals for her works. Her paintings are in collections of museums in Canada, United States and England.

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Artworks

  • Volendam, Holland, from the Zuidende

    Elizabeth Forbes
    ?1895
    On display at Tate Britain part of Historic and Modern British Art

Sketches, letters, etc.

  • Letter from Stanhope Forbes to Elizabeth Armstrong, addressed 7 Barnoon Terrace, St Ives

    Stanhope Alexander Forbes, recipient: Elizabeth Forbes
    1886
    View by appointment
  • Letter from Stanhope Forbes to Elizabeth Armstrong, addressed Newlyn, Penzance

    Stanhope Alexander Forbes, recipient: Elizabeth Forbes
    31 January 1887
    View by appointment
  • Letter from Stanhope Forbes to Elizabeth Armstrong

    Stanhope Alexander Forbes, recipient: Elizabeth Forbes
    date not known
    View by appointment
  • Letter from Stanhope Forbes to Elizabeth Armstrong, addressed North Wales

    Stanhope Alexander Forbes, recipient: Elizabeth Forbes
    25 August 1887
    View by appointment
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