Hugh Dunford Wood, a multifaceted artist whose influence spanned painting, fashion, and design, has passed away at the age of 76. Renowned for his vibrant landscapes and portraits, Dunford Wood also made waves in the fashion world, hand-painting silk ties and collaborating with illustrious names like Paul Smith and Yohji Yamamoto. His legacy includes an impressive portfolio of work that extends beyond the canvas to include flatware, sculptures, and even artisanal wallpaper, leaving an indelible mark on the creative landscape.
A Diverse Artistic Journey
Born in Watlington, Oxfordshire, Hugh was the son of Angela, a nurse and physiotherapist, and Colin Dunford Wood, an RAF pilot. His educational journey began at Wellington College in Berkshire, followed by the Ruskin School of Art at Oxford in the 1970s. It was here that he honed his skills and developed a passion for creativity that would define his career.
In 1976, he married Emma Stacey, and the couple settled in a charming farmhouse in the Cotswolds near Chipping Norton. Throughout his life, Hugh thrived as an artist, gaining recognition as an artist in residence at prestigious institutions such as the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Globe Theatre in 1989. His works have been exhibited extensively and are part of collections at the Victoria & Albert Museum, various Oxford colleges, and numerous private collections.
Inspiring Future Generations
Hugh’s later years were marked by a profound commitment to nurturing the creative talents of others. Initially hesitant about sharing his skills, he underwent a transformation that led him to conduct workshops focused on wallpaper and textile printing, iPad art, and sketchbook practices. This shift brought him immense joy as he empowered others to explore their artistic potential. In recognition of his contributions, he received the President’s Award for Endangered Crafts from the Heritage Crafts Fund in 2022.
A source of inspiration for many, Hugh often turned to nature for his artistic pursuits, capturing the beauty around him in small sketchbooks he carried everywhere. His unique ability to engage with the world through his art drew people in, creating connections and fostering a sense of community. His love for music, literature, and the vibrancy of young minds further fuelled his creative spirit, allowing him to continually evolve as an artist.
Reflections on Life and Art
In a candid interview with handprinted.co.uk, Hugh shared his philosophy on creativity: “Neither hide nor hoard your talents, but share them, and accrue to them by inquiry with other artists and makers. Celebrate life and remember that the world is full of hosts – there are just not enough guests.” This ethos guided him on countless adventures, inspiring him to travel with his sketchbook rather than a camera, always seeking the beauty in everyday life.
Following his divorce in 2000, Hugh married Candida Blaker in 2008. He leaves behind a rich legacy, survived by Candida, four children—Rollo, Pasco, Aquila, and Jesse—his stepson Daniel, ten grandchildren, and siblings Cynthia and James.
Why it Matters
Hugh Dunford Wood’s passing is a poignant reminder of the transformative power of art and the importance of fostering creativity within communities. His life’s work not only enriched the artistic landscape but also encouraged countless individuals to express themselves and share their talents. As we reflect on his contributions, we honour a spirit that championed creativity, connection, and the joy of artistic exploration, ensuring that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
