Beach Scene by Florence Hess (1891-1974)
Florence Hess was born in Leeds and studied at Leeds School of Art. From 1905 she studied with the Yorkshire painter Mark Senior who was an important member of the Staithes Group of Artists. She became his assistant and accompanied him on visits to Belgium and Holland. Her earlier work, in particular, shows signs of his influence. Florence mainly painted along the coast of Yorkshire and of Norfolk. She also was associated with the Staithes Group of Artists. She exhibited widely, including at the Royal Academy.
This small oil painting, Beach Scene, is painted in an impressionistic style, no doubt influenced by her travels in Europe. In this local scene don’t you think she has perfectly captured the joy of a relaxed day at the beach?
If you have any further information, stories or anecdotes about the artist, or any of the members of the Staithes Art Group, we would love to hear from you. Please contact us by email: Pannett.gallery@whitbytowncouncil.gov.uk