A. E. Halliwell (1905-1987)
Running Race

Airbrush and pen
13 x 13 cm
c.1930
Signed to the bottom right
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 and the V&A.

This striking poster design by A. E. Halliwell features three young men sprinting towards the finish line of a running race, recalling images from the olympics of the 1930s. Halliwell creates a strong sense of contrast in this piece, using dark blocks of ink to depict the men’s hair and clothing seams and the airbrush technique to depict shadows on their limbs and uniform. Halliwell’s attitude in this design seems to be less is more, as he allows our brains to fill in the gaps of where other outlines might be expected.

Condition: Generally very good.

If you would like to know more, please email info@manningfineart.co.uk or call us on 07929 749056.