A Life in Portraiture and Illustration
Walter Ernest Webster was a British figure and portrait painter who also worked as an illustrator. Born in Manchester, United Kingdom, he received formal training at the National Art Training Schools and the Royal Academy Schools. During his time as a student, he was a successful competitor, winning several prizes and scholarships, including a scholarship for painting in 1901 and a silver medal for a cartoon of a draped figure in 1902. His professional career included regular exhibitions at the Royal Academy, the Royal Institute of Oil Painters, the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours, the Royal Glasgow Institute, and the Paris Salon.
His illustrative work appeared on the covers of publications such as Ladies' Home Journal and Etude. He also provided color plates for various books, including works by John Colin Dane, Herbert Strang, and Harry Collingwood. In 1920, he was elected a member of both the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours and the Royal Institute of Oil Painters. He later became a member of the Royal Society of Portrait Painters in 1921 and served as its vice-president in 1937.
Artistic Recognition and Service
Webster's technical skill was recognized internationally, earning him a bronze medal at the Paris Salon in 1912 and silver medals in 1913 and 1914, followed by a gold medal in 1931. His artistic abilities were also utilized during World War I when he served in the British Army. After being tested by the Royal Engineers camouflage school, he was classified as a superior painter and achieved the rank of acting Sergeant.
His portraiture often focused on young women, and his work is held in several public collections, including:
