Clouds and Spitfires - Sir Walter Thomas Monnington - Framed art Print

Thomas Monnington was widely recognised for his masterful figure compositions and grand decorative pieces. Despite a year-long battle with a heart condition at age 12, Monnington continued to develop his skills, thanks to his mother's encouragement. His education in art began at the London School of Art in 1917, followed by enrollment at the Slade School of Fine Art in early 1918. Here, his mentor, Henry Tonks, greatly influenced his development, encouraging his specialty in decorative painting and shaping his meticulous approach. Monnington later imparted his knowledge at the same institution.

In 1922, his talent earned him a scholarship in decorative painting at the British School at Rome. He immersed himself in the Italian culture the following year, traveling extensively in Tuscany and Umbria, profoundly influenced by Quattrocento artists.

During World War II, Monnington joined the Ministry of Camouflage's design team in 1939, subsequently serving as an official war artist with the Royal Air Force from November 1943. This period shaped his later works, which combined his affection for early Italian art, wartime experiences, and scientific interests into geometric, abstract compositions.

Monnington's artworks are cherished by several institutions, including the Imperial War Museums, Tate, and the V&A.