Here libraries, card rooms, restaurants, etc., were set up and especial care was taken to arrange spacious rooms for assemblies of a social nature.
On the suggestion of Mr. Ian Greenlees, the collector, and Mr. John Rothenstein,
Director of the Tate Gallery, the British Council agreed to be responsible for the organization of a series of travelling exhibi
tions of Contemporary British Art to visit these Centres in turn and eventually to be exhibited in some of the Dominions’ and American hospitals. It was pointed out, quite rightly, that pictures, like people, had been evacuated to the country, but many owners, rather than allow their treasures to lie fallow throughout these war years, agreed to have them removed from their hiding places and give them an airing in so admirable a cause. The youth of the Allied
nations was with us. Why not introduce them to the cream of British art during such time as they were off military duty, amongst us? True, they were able to have un
commonly interesting little shows of their own art in their clubs, but that was not enough. Their own creations would be
with them always: why not seize this unique chance of setting our art before them so that, on the cessation of hostilities, they would return to their native land
Gerald Brockhurst, R. A., R.E. “The West of Ireland’ Engraving
H. E. du Plessis “Corner of the Study” (Front the collection of Sir Edward Marsh, K.C.V.O., C.B., C.M.G.)