Biography

Kenneth Mayhew was born in Great Oakley, Essex but moved to Weeley, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, when he was 21. He was still living in Weeley with his wife Kay at the time of his death in 2014. Because of a disability which restricted him to a wheelchair Kenneth never attended school, but he was sent a home tutor who also happened to be an art teacher. Donald Fairhall, his tutor, being very impressed by Kenneth’s artistic talent consequently gave him art classes at home and developed his skills as an artist. Later in life Kenneth also trained as a clock repairer.

Statement

Kenneth’s work, as seen here, is highly polished and realistic. During his career as an artist he sold many works and gave many to his friends, such was his popularity. Unfortunately due to his illness he had to stop painting and drawing in the early 1980s, but still remained involved in showing his work.

According to archive records he was a member of Colchester Art Society in 1966 and 1967, but perhaps was still a member long after that.

Selected Exhibitions

The Minories, Colchester, Orchard, solo exhibition of paintings, reliefs and drawings, sponsored by Colchester Art Society, 1974 (1st -28th April) [No 12]

Colchester Art Society exhibitions: 1967, 1968, 1970, 1975, 1978, 1981, 1983

Works in Public Collections

Colchester and Ipswich Museums, Interior of St Osyth Mill, watercolour, c.1958-1960