Olivia Mary Bryden facts for kids

Olivia Mary Bryden (1883–1951) was a British artist. She was known for painting portraits of people. She also created decorative art pieces.

About Olivia Bryden

Olivia Bryden grew up in Tunbridge Wells, England. She went to West Hill School in Eastbourne. After school, she decided to study art in Paris, France.

Her Art Training

In Paris, Olivia studied at two famous art schools. These were the Académie de la Grande Chaumière and the Academie Colarossi. She learned from well-known artists like Lucien Simon and Charles Cottet.

After her time in Paris, Olivia returned to England. She continued her studies at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London. Here, she earned a certificate to teach art. She also won a special prize from the Royal Drawing Society.

Her Artworks and Exhibitions

Olivia Bryden painted many portraits. She also created beautiful decorative artworks. Her art was often shown in London's top galleries. She exhibited her work at places like the Grosvenor Galleries and Burlington House.

She also showed her art with the Fine Art Society and the Royal Society of British Artists. From 1922 to 1933, her work was displayed by the Society of Women Artists.

Art in Churches and Museums

Olivia Bryden created decorative pieces for several churches. She made a special panel for an altar in a church in Brede, Sussex. She also created a triptych (a three-part artwork) for a church in Highgate. This church was close to her home in Hampstead.

One of her famous portraits is of Frederick Courtney Selous. This painting was made in 1935. You can see it today at the National Portrait Gallery in London. The Imperial War Museum also has another portrait of Selous painted by Olivia Bryden.