Harewood Downs by Motor Bus

Fred Taylor (b.1875; d.1963)

Fred Taylor was one of Britain's foremost poster artists from 1908 to the 1940s.

Born in London on March 22 1875, he studied briefly at Goldsmith’s College, London, where he won a gold medal for his posters; and the Académie Julian, Paris. He also received a travelling scholarship to study in Italy. At some point, whilst working in the Waring and Gillow Studio, Taylor became a poster artist, illustrator, decorator and a water colourist.  

Particularly noted as a poster artist from 1908 to the 1940s, and was regularly commissioned by the LNER, EMB and shipping companies. Taylor also exhibited regularly at the Royal Academy, and other provincial societies. Taylor is also remembered for his decorating work, most notably for ceilings for the former Underwriter’s Room at Lloyds of London, and murals for Austin Reed’s red lacquer room in 1930. During the Second World War, Taylor was employed on naval camouflage. 

He also executed commissions for London Transport, including "Harewood Downs by Motor Bus", which shows the sweeping views of the Misbourne valley, much as it is seen today.

Leisure travel into the area now known as Greater London (and beyond) was promoted to increase revenue during off-peak periods. For similar commercial reasons, commuters were encouraged to live further out from the city in the new suburbs. Posters advertising days out by tube, bus or tram, were prominently displayed at station entrances and on the vehicles themselves. They include some of the most attractive and evocative posters produced by the Underground/London Transport.