Mary Dawson Elwell (née Mary Dawson Bishop) was a talented female artist with a passion for music and travel. Born in Derbyshire in 1874, she was raised in Manchester and attended the progressive Ellerslie Ladies College where she studied art and music among other things. In 1896, she married the Hull industrialist George Holmes. They settled in Beverley, East Yorkshire, where she spent the rest of her life. Here she met the artist Frederick Elwell. After her husband died, she married Frederick in 1914 and soon established herself as a professional painter. She became a member of the Society of Women Artists and exhibited 60 paintings at the Royal Academy and other British art venues. She died in 1952.
Frederick painted Mary's portrait at least twice. First in 1904 (see below), a formal full-length composition, at the request of her husband when she was aged 30. This was her first meeting with Elwell. The Holmeses went on to become friends with Elwell, travelling across Europe together. Frederick also gave Mary painting lessons.
The second portrait, in 1913, is quite a contrast (see main picture above). Here she is shown as a painter, seated in her studio. This picture is warm and intimate, bringing out Mary's self-assurance and suggesting a close relationship between the painter and his subject.
Mary's own artistic output focused on evocative landscapes depicting the Yorkshire countryside, and intimate interiors. Her style was realistic, observant, restrained. This one – Bedroom, Bar House Beverley (1935) – is displayed in the Beverley Art Gallery. The room is elegant and filled with sunlight and the details suggest recent activity.
Some of her work shows the influence of the French Impressionists whom she must have studied. See for example her painting Beverley Minster From The Friary, East Riding Of Yorkshire (1934).
Aside from her artistic career, Mary was well-read and accomplished. She had a passion for music and played the piano. She established the 'Bishop Scholarship' at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester.
Mary was also a member of the Hull Women's Luncheon Club (founded 1924, dissolved 2008). This was the region's first organisation for women with an interest in politics, social issues and public health.
She was clearly an inspiring woman.