Church celebrates murals of “national significance” painted by pioneering female artist

18/05/2021

A parish church has celebrated 100 years of murals, said to be of “national significance,” by having them restored.
Kitty Milroy murals in the chancel of St Mark’s Hale, Surrey known as Wind

The Kitty Milroy murals in the chancel of St Mark’s Hale, Surrey, are an exceptional example of the Arts and Crafts movement. 

Depicting the Annunciation, the Benedictine, and the Gospels, the murals also feature local scenes. Kitty, or Eleanor Catherine Wallace Milroy, lived locally in Farnham until 1920. 

Some of the murals were last restored in the 1940s. It remains a mystery as to where Kitty trained, who commissioned, and who paid for the murals between 1911 and 1920. 

Kitty Milroy murals in the chancel of St Mark’s Hale, Surrey known as Summer

Experts now believe the works of art to be of “national significance” due to their quality and their place within the development of women’s art. Mural conservationists Stephen Rickerby and Lisa Shekede praised the works, which also echo contemporary Symbolist paintings. 

Lesley Crawley, Vicar of St Mark’s, said: “The church is a place of restoration and we are delighted that we get to play a part in the physical restoration of this beautiful artwork. 

“Although it is of national significance, the local story is compelling and so many people have some connection to the mural, whether the painter or the models. 

“St Mark’s is already a place to explore creativity with services where art and craft is available and online with monthly art at St Mark’s. 

“We run a popular Lockdown Art Club and before the pandemic we ran regular art sessions where anyone could come and create. 

“We also want to explore the benefits of art and craft for mental health, linking in with the local community centre and mental health charities in Farnham and Aldershot.”

Kitty Milroy murals in the chancel of St Mark’s Hale Surrey known as Moon

Despite their popularity locally, the works of art were damaged by flood and are only now being cleaned and stabilised. The church is now raising money for a complete restoration – 101 years after they were completed. 

Nick Seversway, Chair of the Kitty Committee, said: “These paintings are a testament to one woman’s faith and artistic abilities. They have remained hidden for one hundred years and their craft and importance has been overlooked for generations. 

“Through our current efforts her work will take its rightful place in the History of 20th Century Mural painting.”

The Parish of Badshot Lea and Hale are currently raising £10,000 for the murals restoration. Donations can be made directly to the church.