Sad death of Kathleen Ward

Kathleen Ward

Photo from Richard Ward's collection

Admired artist from Kensington Place

By Diane Gaskin, North Laine resident

Kathleen Ward of Kensington Place sadly passed away on Thursday, 30th June 2011, aged 95. She was born on 3rd October 1915.

Kath and Frank were admired artists

Kath and Frank moved to Brighton from Chelsea in 1968 and spent many happy years painting and holding exhibitions of their work both in Brighton and London.  Kathleen’s work is shown in the collections of art galleries as diverse as the Salford Museum and Art Gallery in Manchester and the Auckland City Art Gallery in New Zealand (see here: 16 pictures).

They started in London

Kath and her husband Frank cut their artistic teeth together in London during the vibrant 1930s, notwithstanding the dire international economic conditions of the time.

Popular residents

The couple made many friends and were popular residents of the area enjoying many activities relating to the artistic world, such as galleries, films and concerts.

They had three children

Kath met Frank when she was 14 at Ipswich Art School and they were married in November 1938, producing three children – Hilary, Richard and Mairny.  Frank studied at the Royal College of Art and exhibited his work at the Royal Academy.  He went ahead to the great studio in the sky in 1998.

Remembered for her love of life

Kath will be remembered for her love of life, her vibrancy and humour – always taking care in her colour co-ordination of fashion and make-up. 

Condolences to her family

Kath will be sadly missed and I am sure you will join me in giving condolences to her family – especially Hilary, who lovingly dedicated her time to look after her mother for the last 14 years of her life.

I will miss her

I will miss having Kath as a lovely friend and neighbour (and especially her somewhat generous gin and tonics!).

[Previously published in the North Laine Runner, No 211, July/August 2011]