Lake, John Gascoigne

Date: 1903-1975

John Gascoigne Lake studied painting at the Eastbourne School of Art, alongside Eric Ravilious, between the years 1918 and 1925. After continuing his studies at the Royal College of Art between 1925 and 1929, Lake spent time painting in Sussex, Wales, Paris, Provence and Malaga. Lake also a taught at a variety of art schools in Brighton, Eastbourne, Kingston, as well as at Camberwell School of Arts & Crafts.

Lake is best known for his work as a painter, lithographer and a wood and stone carver, however he also was a museum curator and was in charge of the Towner Art Gallery in Eastbourne between 1947 and 1958. During his time at the Gallery, Lake was instrumental in obtaining artworks, including pieces by Walter Sickert.

Lake’s style of painting was diverse, including figure studies, views of Sussex and richly coloured abstract artworks. He had solo exhibitions at Wildenstein & Co. and the Mayor Gallery. He also exhibited with The New English Art Club and with the London Group.

The University Art Collection holds one painting by John Gascoigne Lake.