A. E. Halliwell (1905-1987)
Hats

Airbrush and pen
50 x 32 cm
c.1930
Stamped signature
Provenance: Family of the artist

A.E. Halliwell (1905–1986) was a British artist, illustrator, and designer best known for his vibrant poster designs created for British railway companies during the mid-20th century. Born in Southport, Halliwell developed a strong foundation in art and design early in life. He studied at the Southport School of Art from 1923 to 1926 before graduating to the Royal College of Art in London and subsequently practising as a professional designer from the 1930s. Following his studies, Halliwell married Doris Doyle in Strood Kent, and  went on to have a significant teaching career himself, most notably as a lecturer at the Central School of Arts and Crafts (later part of Central Saint Martins), where he influenced a new generation of designers and illustrators.

Halliwell is perhaps best remembered for his vibrant and engaging poster designs created for British railway companies during the 1930s. His work was characterised by a bright, graphic style that balanced charm with clarity, often depicting idealised scenes of British holiday destinations—from sunny seaside towns to tranquil countryside vistas. Beyond posters, his artistic output included book illustration, commercial design, and stage costume sketches, showcasing his versatility across mediums. His posters continue to remain enduring symbols of a golden age of British travel and design and are displayed in major collections including the London Transport Museum.

This elegant poster design by A. E. Halliwell features two women, adorned in stylish and extravagant hats. To the left of the work, a woman dons a tight-fitting cloche, to her right, another woman models a gainsborough chapeau, its enormous rim providing ample shade for them both. By using simple forms and playing with the contrasts between the dark airbrushed hats and pale delicate faces, Halliwell creates a striking work, capturing the class of 1930s Art Deco glamour.

Condition: Generally very good, very faint area of staining to left margin, pin holes to corners.

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