George Dunlop Leslie

George Dunlop Leslie (1835–1921), English, George Dunlop Leslie, an English genre painter, author, and illustrator, was born into a family with a rich artistic heritage on 2 July 1835. His father, Charles Robert Leslie RA, was a distinguished genre painter, and his uncle, Robert Leslie, specialized in marine art. Leslie's artistic journey began at Cary's Art Academy, followed by formal training at the Royal Academy starting in 1854. He made his debut at the Academy's exhibition in 1859, marking the beginning of a consistent showcase of his work there. His dedication to art earned him the title of Associate (ARA) in 1868 and full Royal Academician (RA) in 1876.
Leslie's early works, like 'Matilda' (1860), reflected the Pre-Raphaelite influence, but he later embraced a more academic and aesthetic style, focusing on the brighter aspects of English domestic life. His paintings, often featuring children, were celebrated for their depiction of innocence and charm, earning praise from critics like John Ruskin. Notably, one of his works was utilized in a soap advertisement, highlighting its appeal. Beyond painting, Leslie contributed to literature with several publications, including 'Our river' (1888) and 'Riverside letters' (1896), which he also illustrated. His legacy includes not only his paintings and writings but also his murals in St Leonards Church, painted during his residence at 'Riverside' in Wallingford, where he was part of a vibrant artistic community.