Jane Cummings (1917-2001) 
`Woodland Walk` c1950-60
An enchanting oil on canvas depicting a young family out walking in the woods by Jane Cummings, who was working in the immediate postwar period in the late 1940`s and 1950`s. The influence of artists such as Edward Ardizzone and Doris Zinkeisen, artist and stage designer, can be seen here. In the late 1940`s all three had been working on theatre cut-out books for children, albeit separately - but each would have been familiar with the others work. Cummings produced probably the best known in 1948 which was called `A Theatre You Can Make` which was published by Puffin Books, now a rare and collectable item in its own right. There is something of the theatre about this painting, with the foreground figures framed by the abstracted shapes of the trees almost like stage scenery. A pleasant and stylish painting very much of its period. Undated but I would think c.1950-60. The original satin pale ivory frame has been refinished and is in nice condition.
Jane Cummings (1917-2001) was a Painter, printmaker, illustrator and teacher who was born in Richmond, Surrey. Studied at Harrow School of Art, Chelsea School of Art under Graham Sutherland, and Harold Williamson, and at the Central School of Art with Clarke Hutton. Exhibited widely in the south of England and work was purchased by London County Council and Hertfordshire Education Committee. Published `Theatre You Can Make` in the Penguin books `Puffin` series. Lived in Northwood, Middlesex.