George Rushton (Grandfather) – Artist’s Gallery

George Rushton (1868-1948) was born in Birmingham and from 1906-1929 was head of Ipswich School of Art, this period is often regarded as the hey-day of the Art School. In his time as Principle he nurtured the careers of many successful artists including Albert Ribbans, Reginald Hagger and Arthur Southgate, he also made a point of visiting local schools on talent spotting excursions.

It was during one such visit that he noticed the potential of Leonard Squirrell and in time Squirrell became George Rushton’s most celebrated pupil. The East Anglian Daily Times of 4th February 1929 reported on Rushton’s retirement ceremony; in his speech he described Squirrell as one of the the finest technicians in the country.