War-time artist David Thornton Smith

[Steve Smith]

Hi,

The above artist is known to have visited 218 Squadron, 1941 Marham and again in 1942 to paint various aspects of Bomber Command.

I would like to know more about this artist who I believe was working for the Air Ministry at the time.

TIA

Steve

[andy bird]

Hi Steve,

His work appeared in a small A5 size B/W book published by Oxford Uni Press priced at 1/6 net entitled "War Pictures By British Artists III RAF" 62 pages. Second Series published in 1943.

Sadly to-date not been able to find a copy. Only learnt about these books when finding one entitled 'Production' for 50 pence in Oxfam. There is reference to his work appearing in the RAF one.

Regards

Andy Bird

[Steve Smith]

Hi Andy,

A belated thank you for your help.

I saved an original oil on canvas painting depicting a Wellington Mk.II of 218 Squadron from a bin recently. The Wellington is shown undergoing maintenance in a hanger at RAF Marham. It was only after I removed the frame (not original) I found his signature and date, June 1941.

A lovely painting, and one I am grateful to have.

Steve

[andy bird]

Steve,
Know problem, superb painting. Not sure if Andrew Cormack is still at the RAFM London as he is due to retire. But, he should be able to shed more light on the artist I would have thought.

Also found out that David Thornton Smith work appeared in the RAF Journal between 1941/42 for the Air Ministry. They were normally commissioned to do illustrations, or paintings for the monthly issue.

Regards

Andy Bird

[SteveB]

Steve
Have you asked the RAF Museum?
SB