Paddling in the Sea

Mary Stella Edwards was inspired by the wild beauty of the Devon coast, painting many views of the local area around the settlement of Bucks Mills. She attended The Regent Street Polytechnic, it was there that she met fellow student Judith Ackland. This was the start of a lifelong partnership that only ended with Judith’s death in 1971.

Many of her works feature their cabin that was located above Bideford Bay and served as a studio and a summerhouse. In addition to her painting, she produced book illustrations and designed book covers. She was also a poet and published several volumes of poetry during her life time.

Paddling in the sea is notable for its vivacity and freshness of colour.