Daphne Lester
Images l-r: Borwick Hall, Arnset Tower, Plumbs and a map of the Parish
John Lucas gives us some quite vivid information about parish life in the early eighteenth century. But from the moment I decided to reprint his book, I felt certain that a new edition would benefit enormously from illustrations. Luckily for me that task was undertaken by a particularly accomplished local artist.
Daphne Lester used to be Head of Music at Kendal Girls’ High School and Kirkbie Kendal School and she is a former conductor of Kendal Choral Society. She also exhibits regularly at local art shows. But this is her first foray into the world of book illustration.
Daphne’s best known artworks are probably her meticulously drawn and cleverly designed local maps decorated with pictures of prominent local landmarks. Having admired these over the years, I was absolutely delighted when she agreed to provide the illustrations I needed for the new version of Lucas.
We initially agreed that she would deliver six of her beautifully crafted ink drawings. In the event, she became so engrossed in the project that she has provided 18 illustrations. These range from her architectural portraits of Borwick Hall gatehouse and Arnside Tower to well-observed renditions of a heron eating an eel and the ripe “plumbs” that made Yealand Storrs locally famous back in Lucas’s day. Some of these images are now available to purchase as A4 prints.
Daphne’s preferred method of working is to visit the location and take photographs before retreating to her dining room table at home to start the real work. Although some of the subjects featured in the book were very familiar others were completely new to her. She tells me that the outing she enjoyed most was her quest for Senset Well in the fields below Warton. This necessitated some serious questioning of local farmers and much wandering around the fields before finally locating the well.
I am enormously grateful to Daphne for her enthusiasm and hard-work and I’m sure readers will agree that her pictures are absolutely terrific.
Miss Lester was my piano teacher.
I had no idea that she was an artist / illustrator as well. It was lovely to see the photo of her posted here.
Dear Ms Mcmurray
Apologies for the late reply — I’m afraid I haven’t used this site much lately nor have I spoken to Daphne in recent months. I will pass on your message.
Andy
Dear Ms Lester,
We would like to have your postal address, please mail or phone 724312 many thanks, David Hodgkinson
Dear Mr Hodgkinson
Apologies for the late reply — I’m afraid I haven’t used this website much lately nor have I spoken to Daphne Lester in recent months. I will pass on your telephone number/email.
Andy Denwood
Daphne did a fantastic job with these illustrations. She taught me the piano up to the age of 15 and I know she is still a dedicated pianist. I am lucky enough to have one of her painting hanging on my wall. Do pass on my love if you are in touch with her in the near future. Thanks!