Quality and Innovation– The Leith School of Art

It’s our last Scottish Contemporary Art Auction of the year and we’re delighted to present for sale six artworks by artists associated with the Leith School of Art: its co-founder Mark Cheverton (lots 92 – 95), and its current Principal, Philip Archer (lots 96 and 97).

Established in 1988 by Mark and his wife Charlotte (Lottie), the Leith School of Art promoted a creative environment for personal growth and intellectual awareness. For three years the Chevertons ran the school together until a tragic car accident killed them both. Their close friend, Philip Archer shared their vision and went on to take over the running of school in 1992.

Lot 92 is an untitled abstract composition in mixed media, which looks to be biro ink and wash in a wonderfully muted palette. Lot 93 is a chaotic scene, and the title itself could allude to a commentary on globalisation and the age of anxiety, which is inscribed in pencil to the bottom left. However, it is also a highly personal piece: to the reverse is a touching inscription written by the artist to his mother and from this we can see it was presented to her as a birthday gift in 1978. 

Cheverton is also represented in two exquisite etchings depicting the details of both Crinan Lighthouse (lot 94) and Mull and Galloway Lighthouse (95). These are beautifully bold yet moody compositions, highlighting Cheverton’s attention to detail and each carry an auction estimate of £100 – 200.

Archer is represented in two mixed-media compositions, making use of oil pastel to create rippling waves (lots 96 and 97). Each picture carries an auction estimate of £200 – 400.

Click to view the full catalogue >>

Jenny Macleod

The Scottish Contemporary Art Auction takes place every six weeks. Come along to the Valuation Days at McTear’s on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this week for complimentary auction advice.