Rowland Hilder

View works. Rowland Hilder, A Kent Landscape
A Kent Landscape
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Rowland Hilder OBE

Rowland Hilder OBE, was a notable British landscape artist and book illustrator.

Born on June 28, 1905, in Great Neck, New York, Hilder's family relocated to Kent, England, in 1915. His natural talent for drawing was recognized early on by a schoolmaster in Kent. He pursued formal education in art at Goldsmith's College in London, where he crossed paths with his future wife, Edith Blenkiron, a botanical illustrator.

Hilder's artistic focus centered on watercolor, and he gained recognition for his skill in depicting quintessential Kent landscapes. His work often featured sensitively modulated palettes that captured the essence of the sky and earth. His ability to convey the beauty of the English countryside contributed to his growing reputation as an accomplished watercolorist.

Not only an artist, but Hilder also played a significant role in the art community. He served as the president of England's Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours from 1964 to 1974, showcasing his leadership and commitment to the medium. In recognition of his contributions to the arts, he was awarded an Order of the British Empire in 1986.

Rowland Hilder's legacy lives on through his art and his impact on the art world, particularly in the realm of watercolor. His ability to capture the essence of the English landscape has left a lasting impression, and his tenure as the president of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours further solidifies his place in the history of British art.