Renowned Local Artist
Obituary: Norfolk painter Geoffrey Burrows
A self-taught painter Geoffrey Burrows, who has died aged 89, was a successful exhibitor at the Royal Norfolk Show’s art show for four decades.
A figurative painter in oil and watercolour, he was born in St Faith’s, near Norwich, and went to Paston Grammar School, North Walsham. He became a telecommunications engineer and then a BT manager in 1991. He lived in Spixworth and took up painting after attending an art class at Sprowston School.
He began serious painting in the late 1960s and was soon exhibiting in London and further afield.
He exhibited at the Royal Academy’s summer shows from 1980 to 1996 as well as exhibitions held by the Royal Institute of Oil Painters, the Royal Society of British Artists and the Royal Society of Marine Artists. He joined the Norfolk & Norwich Art Circle in 1976 and was a highly-respected member.
Sue Willmer, chairman, said: “His beautiful work was created with the delicacy and sureness of an artist at the peak of his creativity whose skill was greatly admired.”
He painted widely in Norfolk and Suffolk and in Europe including Germany, France, and also Hong Kong, Thailand and the United States. One of his favourite locations for painting was the south of France, especially near the Pyrenees.
Geoffrey Norman Burrows, who died on September 23, 2023, last exhibited at the Royal Norfolk Show in 2015. He submitted oils from the 1980s.
The Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association’s Art Show, first staged in 1971, has become an important platform for painters and sculptors. His range of agricultural and landscape pictures always sold well.
His varied work featured landscapes, still life and coastal scenes from his native Norfolk. He even visited Carrow Road painting one memorable match in Norwich City’s history.
In January 1989, non-league Sutton United played City in the FA Cup 4th Round. Dave Stringer’s side won 8-0 as Malcolm Allen netted four times, Robert Fleck added a hat-trick after Trevor Putney had opened in the 14th minute.
He leaves a partner, Pat, and three nephews and nieces. A funeral was to be held at St Mary & St Andrew, Horsham St Faith, on October 19 (noon) followed by interment.
Michael Pollitt
