Byam Shaw: Carry On!

"The Greatest of All Heroes is One" by Byam Shaw

"Byam Shaw's duty in the Special Constabulary during WWI, first as a Sergeant and later as Inspector, was carried out with the enthusiasm and zeal habitual to him. His genial nature and his efficiency gained for him both popularity and respect. Constantly on patrol at night, he yet tried to follow his art profession unhindered. This, with his anxiety for a son dangerously ill, added to the effects of years of overwork, brought on a collapse. After lying semi-conscious and partly asleep for a fortnight, he died on January 26th, 1919. 

The funeral service at St. Barnabas', was taken by the Rev. T. H. Falkiner, an admirer of his work and friend, who first became acquainted by his purchase of the picture, 'The Greatest of All Heroes is One'. His address was a tribute to Shaw's character and service to God. Another tribute, amongst many, was one of friendship, and to his work - that of a great palette, set with gay colours and brushes, the whole fashioned in lovely flowers and made by his students. Outside the church was a Guard of Honour of several detachments of Special and Regular constabulary, between whose ranks, some two hundred strong, the procession passed to the final resting place at Kensal Green. 

His life of forty-six years was devoted to the interpretation of beauty in God's creation, and in homage to Christ. His aim in the affairs of life was to work incessantly for his wife and children, and to enter into the joys, pleasures, and sorrows of others. The realm of Art has been enriched by his genius and industry. His thoughts left in pictures and illustrations remain for the enjoyment of posterity. The title of his last picture, applied to the War, may be taken by his friends and by all sincere young artists as a message. It was, 'All's well, carry on!'"

To be continued

(Excerpts from "The Art & Life of Byam Shaw" by Rex Vicat Cole.)