Robin Tanner
Robin Tanner (1904-1988) was a Wiltshire based artist, etcher and printmaker, known for his rural scenes.
The Young Gallery holds a selection of etchings, wood engravings, sketches, teaching aids and archival material relating to Robin Tanner. Subjects include botanical studies and supporting material relating to his teaching of design and handwriting. This collection can be accessed on request, please email YoungGallery@wiltshire.gov.uk (opens new window).
Tanner was born in Bristol but spent most of his life living in Wiltshire. He studied education and etching at Goldsmiths College in London, and has been credited as being part of the etching revival.
The Young Gallery's collection contains teaching aids from when Tanner taught at Ivy Lane School, including archival material, handwriting aids and examples of students working under his tutelage. Tanner went on to work as H.M. Inspector of Schools in primary schools from 1935 to 1964. Tanner believed that the study of natural things and the exploration of arts and crafts, music and poetry were essential for the development of teachers and children.
When he retired in 1964, Tanner returned to printmaking. He collaborated with his wife, Heather Spackman, whom he had married in 1931, on books exploring local plants and flowers. The Young Gallery holds Tanner's botanical studies which he used for later etchings. These studies show his attention to detail and give an insight into his life living in Kington Langley, Wiltshire.
Tanner's work can be found in a number of public collections, but the material held at the Young Gallery gives a unique glimpse into his life as both a teacher and artist. For more information about the collection, or to book a research appointment, please email YoungGallery@wiltshire.gov.uk (opens new window).
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