Lily Williams facts for kids

Lily Williams was an important Irish artist. She was born Elizabeth Josephine Williams on October 20, 1874, in Rathmines, Dublin. She became famous for painting portraits of people. She also designed some of Ireland's postage stamps. Lily Williams was an Associate of the Royal Hibernian Academy (ARHA), which is a big honor for artists in Ireland. She passed away on January 16, 1940, in Ranelagh, Dublin.

Becoming an Artist

Moyra (now in the Hugh Lane Gallery, Dublin)

Lily Williams started her art studies with Mary Manning. Later, she joined the Dublin Metropolitan School of Art. She studied there with other artists like Estella Solomons and Cissie Beckett. Lily Williams was also a member of the Dublin Sketching Club. This club was a place where artists could meet and draw together.

From 1904 to 1939, Lily Williams showed her paintings every year at the Royal Hibernian Academy. This was a very important art exhibition in Ireland. In 1929, she became an Associate of the Academy. This meant her work was highly respected by other artists.

Art and Irish History

Ireland 3d definitive "Cross of Cong" stamp featuring Williams' design

Lily Williams was a strong supporter of Irish independence. She believed Ireland should be a free country, not ruled by Britain. This belief was called Irish republicanism. She supported Sinn Féin, a political party that wanted Ireland to be independent.

During the Easter Rising in 1916, there was a rebellion in Dublin. This event caused problems between Lily and her family. Her family were Unionists, meaning they wanted Ireland to stay part of the United Kingdom.

Many of Lily Williams's famous paintings show themes of Irish nationalism. She also painted portraits of people who were important in Ireland's fight for independence.

Designing Stamps

One of her most well-known works is the design for the Irish Free State's "Cross of Cong" postage stamp. She created this design in 1922. The "Cross of Cong" is a famous old Irish cross. This stamp design was used for a very long time, until 1968. It helped people recognize Irish art and history every time they sent a letter.

Legacy

Lily Williams's art is still important today. The Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin has a portrait she painted of Arthur Griffith. He was a key figure in Irish independence.

In 2014, Lily Williams's work was part of an art show. The exhibition was called Irish Women Artists: 1870 - 1970. This show celebrated the work of many talented Irish women artists. Her personal papers are kept safe at the National Library of Ireland. They help us learn more about her life and work.

Selected Works

• Portrait of Dr Kathleen Lynn, which is at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
• Hibernia (1907)