Illustrator of the Week - John Strickland Goodall

Thanks to Chris Campell for this illustrator suggestion.

John Strickland Goodall was born in Norfolk in 1908, coming from a long line of doctors. However, at an early age he showed a great talent for art and his father reluctantly agreed that he could study drawing. In the 1930's, Goodall worked mainly as an illustrator for such magazines as the Radio Times and the Bystander. He also painted landscaped, interiors and conversation pieces, mostly in watercolor, which he preferred to painting in oil.

During World War II he was posted to India, where he worked in camouflage. After the war, he and his wife moved near Tisbury. They had a small cottage with a large garden and studio shed which was to feature in many of Goodall's pictures. When his wife grew ill, Goodall nursed her devotedly. This seclusion is what led him to work on children's books, and funny enough his greatest success as an artist. He is best known for his wordless picture books including the award winning The Adventures of Paddy Pork, The Creepy Castle, Naughty Nancy, and Kelly, Dot, and Esmeralda. Although his art has included photography, his illustrations have been used in many publications. Goodall was said to be gentle, humorous, and modest. As an artist, many people said he was a joy to deal with.