Sir Alfred Munnings (1878-1959) was a renowned British artist, celebrated for his equestrian paintings, rural landscapes, and outspoken criticism of Modernism. Born in Mendham, Suffolk, he developed a deep love for horses early on while growing up on a working mill. He apprenticed as a lithographer and studied at the Norwich School of Art and in Paris, where he embraced plein-air naturalism and refined his Impressionist-influenced style. Despite losing sight in one eye in 1898, Munnings gained fame for his dynamic depictions of hunting, horse racing, and country life. During World War I, he served as an official war artist for the Canadian Cavalry, further solidifying his reputation. His career flourished post-war, with notable commissions, including paintings for the Canadian War Memorials.
In 1944 Munnings became president of the Royal Academy of Arts, while also receiving a knighthood later that year. His tenure at the Royal Academy lasted until 1949 however he continued to paint until his death a decade later. His home in Dedham now serves as a museum dedicated to his work, with his art also held in prestigious collections worldwide such as the Royal Academy, the National Portrait Gallery, Tate Britain, the Royal Collection, in London and the Carnegie Museum in the US.
Museum Collections
Aberdeen Art Gallery, Aberdeen
Birmingham Museum of Art, Birmingham
Hove Museum, Brighton
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Bristol
The Munnings Art Museum, Dedham
Towner Art Gallery, Eastbourne
Lady Lever Art Gallery, Liverpool
Tate Britain, London
Yale Center for British Art, New Haven, CT
Palace House, Newmarket
Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Norwich
Carnegie Museum of Art, Pittsburgh
Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney