The Savoy, A Fairmont Managed Hotel in London, UK, has unveiled a panoramic painting of the River Thames that is being exhibited in the hotel’s Front Hall.
The painting depicts the river from the same vantage point as one painted in 1957, and which is currently part of the hotel’s collection. The recent painting is created by the hotel’s artist-in-residence, David Downes, also inspired by the iconic ‘The River Thames on Lord Mayor’s Day’ artwork, painted by Canaletto. The new painting also depicts the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee pageant on the river Thames.
Kiaran MacDonald, the managing director of The Savoy, said, ‘The Savoy has enjoyed a long history of playing host to artists and commissioning artwork. We are delighted to have continued this tradition by working with David Downes to create a wonderful record of London and of such a historic occasion as the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant.’
David Downes is a 41-year old autistic painter, specialising in cityscapes. He said, ‘I was very excited to have been asked by The Savoy to paint such an important occasion. The cityscape by itself is inspiring but the pomp and ceremony of the River Pageant made this a unique commission. I felt that I had the best seat in London from which to capture these stunning views and the glory of the pageant. It is a day that I will never forget.’
Prints of the painting are available to purchase at the hotel, including a limited edition signed and framed collection.
The hotel is claimed to have been an icon of British culture since 1889, and has recently reopened on completion of a £220 million restoration project.
