The Hidden Artistic History of Masham: A Journey Through Time

Sometimes, when you’ve lived in a place for as long as I have, it’s easy to forget the rich history right beneath your feet. Masham, an ancient town with around a thousand residents, is brimming with historical significance. Walk through the streets, and you’ll quickly spot remnants of its past—like the Saxon Cross or the 12th c  Market Cross. But what’s perhaps less obvious is the creative, artistic history that runs deep in this small corner of the world.
For a town of its size, Masham has attracted—and continues to inspire—a remarkable amount of creativity. From renowned artists to hidden artistic gems, Masham has been a muse for many. Taking a virtual stroll through the town we can uncover some of its artistic treasures.

Nutwith Common, Masham - Reginald Brundritt - image - Tate images.

Reginald Grange Brundrit: A Royal Academy Artist
Start your journey behind The Café on the Square, where you'll find the gallery of Nolan Stacey. But just a little further hidden from view, is a very special artist’s former studio. This studio once belonged to Reginald Grange Brundrit (1883–1960), a distinguished member of the Royal Academy. Brundrit’s works are housed in prestigious collections like the Tate and the Imperial War Museum, yet his studio remains a quiet testament to his legacy in Masham.
Located in the garage of The Old Vicarage, right next to the church, Brundrit’s studio is bathed in light from a glass wall, allowing him to capture the light when painting. A memorial to Brundrit is placed inside St. Mary’s Church, right next to a stunning stained-glass window by Harry Stammers (1902–1969), a renowned artist from York. Today, Brundrit’s easel lives on, as Simon Palmer (1956–), another celebrated artist, now paints on it, inspired by the very landscape that once inspired Brundrit.
Palmer’s own works can be found in collections around the world, but if you’re in Masham, be sure to check out his Remembrance Piece displayed in the Town Hall entrance and a few at Bordar House Teas.
​

Simon Palmer - Photo credit Gary Keat.

George Cuitt - Hackfall. Grosvenor Museum

George Cuitt and the Follies of Masham
Just beyond the school at the top of Millgate, you’ll find the impressive Nutwith House, built by the accomplished artist George Cuitt the Younger (1779–1854). Cuitt was best known for his etchings, many of which depicted ruins and follies—a subject that was in vogue during his time. His fascination with ruins mirrors the work of contemporary figures like William Danby, who constructed the Druid's Temple just outside of Masham, and John Aislabie, responsible for the beautiful follies in Hackfall Woods.
The follies in the area became so famous that they even appeared on a green frog tea set commissioned for Catherine the Great of Russia in 1774. And, of course, it was William Danby who invited Julius Caesar Ibbetson (1759–1817) to Masham in 1804, commissioning him to paint parts of what is now the Swinton Estate. Be sure to visit the church to admire the striking stone monument Danby erected in his memory.
​

The Painter's Family At Masham - Ibbetson

Julius Caesar Ibbetson: The Painter with a Complex Name
One of the most intriguing artists associated with Masham is Julius Caesar Ibbetson. While we know him today by his full name, it’s interesting to note that he despised his middle name and did everything he could to hide it during his lifetime. Born in December 1759 via Caesarean section after his mother slipped on ice, Ibbetson was a prominent figure in the art world and one of the many artists who found inspiration in Masham. His works are housed in prestigious collections, including the Tate.
Historians speculate that No. 9 Park Street—the cottage where Ibbetson may have lived—might even be the subject of his painting The Painter’s Family at Masham. He resided in Masham for the rest of his life (dying in 1817) and it’s said to be some of his happiest days.
​

Joseph William Mallord Turner’s visit
We know that Turner visited the Yorkshire Dales over many years, he travelled around the dales on horseback and did over 1000 sketches in the area. His sketch of Masham is dated 1816 and is in the Tate collection. There’s an online booklet available on his grand tour of the dales here https://issuu.com/welcometoyorkshire/docs/turner_booklet
​

2 of Priscilla Warner's illustrations from the early 1970's

Priscilla Warner: The Forgotten Illustrator
Just a short walk along Park Street brings you to Priscilla Warner’s (1905–1994) house. Warner, an accomplished author and illustrator, spent her later years here with her brother. She was also the head of the Art Department at Ripon College and was well known for her commercial illustration work. But what many don’t know is that Warner also created some beautiful, lesser-known paintings—many of which still adorn the walls of Masham today.
​

Discover Masham’s Artistic Legacy
If you're fascinated by Masham’s artistic heritage and want to dive deeper into its history, you’re in luck. Local artist and history enthusiast Ian Scott Massie offers private tours of the area, sharing his knowledge of Masham’s creative past. 
Masham’s rich tapestry of art and creativity is woven through the lives and works of these remarkable individuals. From the Royal Academy to the etchings of the past, the town is a living museum of artistic achievement. So, next time you’re walking here, take a moment to stop and look around. You might just see the inspiration behind the works of some of the most talented artists in history, right here in Masham.
​