Jack Simcock (1929 - 2012)
The Master of Mow Cop
Jack Simcock was a definitive British oil painter whose work captures the stark, atmospheric beauty of the Staffordshire Moorlands. Born in Biddulph in 1929, the son of a collier, Simcock rose from humble beginnings to become a celebrated figure in the 20th-century British Art scene. Today, his work is highly sought after by collectors specialising in Northern Art and moody, mid-century landscapes.
Artistic Style and the Piccadilly Gallery Years
Jack Simcock is best known for his "dark period" during the 1960s and 70s. Working with the prestigious Piccadilly Gallery in London, he gained international acclaim for his sombre, monochromatic oil paintings of Mow Cop and the surrounding moorlands.
While his early work focused on the rugged silhouettes of local cottages and hillsides, his later career saw a transition into:
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Figurative Work: Introducing human elements into his stark landscapes.
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Abstracts: A bold shift into vibrant, colourful abstract compositions.
Mentorship and the Burslem School of Art
Simcock’s unique style was forged at the Burslem School of Art. He studied under the influential Reginald Haggar, who recognised his raw talent early on. Simcock was also deeply influenced by his contemporary, Arthur Berry, who was instrumental in helping him refine a style that resonated with the London art market.
His autobiography, Simcock Mow Cop, provides a rare insight into these formative years and the complex relationships between the "The Boys"—Simcock, Berry, and Enos Lovatt—who came to define the soul of North Staffordshire art.
Market Value and Auction Success
The legacy of Jack Simcock continues to grow. In November 2023, his works reached record auction prices, aligning with gallery valuations and signalling a strong future for Simcock’s pieces in the collectable art market.
We at Barewall Art Gallery played a pivotal role in this recent resurgence, hosting viewings and working alongside major auction houses to connect international collectors with these significant British works. Whether you are a seasoned investor or a new collector, a Jack Simcock painting represents a cornerstone of Northern British realism.
Public Collections and Legacy
Jack Simcock passed away in 2012, just before the opening of the landmark exhibition "The Boys" at Keele University’s Chancellors Gallery. His works are held in numerous public and private collections worldwide, standing as a testament to his status as one of the most important Staffordshire artists of the post-war era.
