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Painter and teacher Clifford Ellis was a shy and quiet character, so it is no surprise that his painting of people celebrating in Bath on VE Day is discreet and understated.

Clifford was a graphic artist and illustrator, working mainly with his wife, Rosemary.

In collaboration they designed pieces for Shell, The General Post Office and London Transport. As well as this he was also the Principal of Corsham Court at the Bath Academy of Art.

Two artists who worked under Clifford and knew him well, are John Eaves and Michael Pennie. They describe Clifford’s VE Day scene and the personality behind the painting.

Interview with John Eaves and Michael Pennie
Image: VE Day in Bath, courtesy of the Imperial War Museums