In the quiet halls of the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum, a unique exhibition has opened, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the life and work of one of the most beloved illustrators of the 20th century. EH Shepard, best known for bringing to life the whimsical world of Winnie-the-Pooh and The Wind in the Willows, was also a keen observer of the harsh realities of war. His Great War Sketches, now on display, reveal a side of Shepard that is both unexpected and profoundly moving.

The Dual Life of EH Shepard

Ernest Howard Shepard, or EH Shepard as he is widely known, is a name synonymous with the gentle, enchanting illustrations that accompany AA Milne's Winnie-the-Pooh and Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows. His delicate pencil strokes and evocative watercolors have captured the hearts of generations, creating a world where animals speak, and adventures are just around the corner. However, long before Shepard immortalized the Hundred Acre Wood, he was a soldier in the trenches of World War I, documenting the conflict through his art.

Shepard served as an officer in the Royal Garrison Artillery from 1915, witnessing firsthand the devastation and heroism of the Great War. Amidst the chaos and destruction, he found solace in his sketchbook, capturing scenes of war with the same meticulous attention to detail that would later define his children's illustrations. These sketches, now part of the exhibition at the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum, offer a stark contrast to the whimsical worlds he would later create, showcasing his ability to depict both the beauty and brutality of life.

The Exhibition: A Journey Through War and Peace

The exhibition, titled "Shepard's Great War Sketches," is a collaboration between the University of Surrey Archives and The Shepard Trust. It brings together a collection of Shepard's war drawings, many of which have never been displayed publicly before. These sketches, created in pencil, pen and ink, and watercolor, provide a rare glimpse into the life of a soldier during World War I. They depict scenes ranging from the mundane—officers reading letters, soldiers resting in trenches—to the poignant—wounded men being attended to, the quiet moments of camaraderie amidst the horrors of war.

One particularly striking piece is a pencil self-portrait of Shepard himself, drawn in the midst of battle. It captures the weariness and determination of a man who, despite the chaos around him, found a way to document his experiences through art. Another notable illustration shows a British officer reading a letter to an injured soldier, a poignant reminder of the human connections that persisted even in the most inhumane conditions.

The Intersection of War and Art

EH Shepard's war sketches are more than just historical documents; they are a testament to the power of art to capture and convey the human experience. While his illustrations for children's books are characterized by their whimsy and charm, his war drawings are raw and unfiltered. They reveal a man who was deeply affected by the conflict but also deeply committed to recording it.

The exhibition at the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum is not just a display of Shepard's war sketches; it is also an exploration of his artistic journey. Alongside the war drawings, visitors will find examples of his beloved children's illustrations and comic art. This juxtaposition highlights the duality of Shepard's career, showing how his experiences in the trenches influenced his later work. The exhibition also includes some of his war service kit, such as his Royal Garrison Artillery officer's forage cap and identification tags, adding a personal touch to the display.

A Program of Talks and Family Events

To enhance the visitor experience, the museum has organized a series of talks and a full program of family events. These sessions will delve deeper into Shepard's life and work, offering insights into his artistic process and the historical context of his war sketches. Art historians, military experts, and family members will share their perspectives, providing a comprehensive understanding of Shepard's contributions to both art and history.

One of the highlights of the program is a talk by a Shepard family member, who will share personal anecdotes and stories about the illustrator's life. This intimate glimpse into Shepard's personal world will help visitors connect with the artist on a deeper level, understanding not just his work but also the man behind it.

The Legacy of EH Shepard

EH Shepard's legacy extends far beyond the pages of children's books. His war sketches, though lesser-known, are a crucial part of his artistic output, showcasing his ability to capture the essence of human experience in any context. The exhibition at the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum is a celebration of this multifaceted artist, highlighting his contributions to both literature and history.

Shepard's work during World War I serves as a reminder of the power of art to document and heal. His sketches, created amidst the horrors of war, are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of creativity. They also provide a unique perspective on the conflict, showing the war through the eyes of a soldier who was also an artist.

Conclusion: A Bridge Between Worlds

The exhibition of EH Shepard's Great War Sketches at the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum is more than just a display of art; it is a bridge between two worlds—the world of war and the world of imagination. It shows how one man's experiences in the trenches influenced his later work, creating a legacy that spans both history and fantasy.

As visitors walk through the museum, they are invited to reflect on the duality of Shepard's life and the power of art to capture the human experience. His war sketches remind us of the sacrifices made during World War I, while his children's illustrations invite us to dream and explore. Together, these works create a rich tapestry that celebrates the life and legacy of a remarkable artist.

EH Shepard's journey from the battlefields to the Hundred Acre Wood is a testament to the power of art to transcend boundaries and connect us to our shared humanity. The exhibition at the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum is a fitting tribute to an artist whose work continues to inspire and captivate, proving that even in the darkest of times, creativity can shine as a beacon of hope.