Born London, 1932 but spent formative years at Sutton, Surrey. From local artschool went on to City & Guilds School of Art in London to study fine art, drawing & painting. Began his career in a design studio, working on architectural,graphic, and product design projects.
Started own practice in the early sixties, specialising in graphics, and gained membership in the Royal Society of Industrial Arts & Designers. Since 1971, has reverted to fine art, mainly the painting of old sailing craft & steamships in a traditional manner. The style is reminiscent of 19th century "ship portraits" derived from childhood memories of marine paintings & engravings in his late father's collection of Victorian Art.
Examples of Len Pearce paintings can be found in prominent marine art collections in many parts of the world, including the permanent collection of the Mystic Seaport Museum. Featured in "20th Century British Marine Painting" byDenys-Brook-Hart, published 1981.
Exhibits:
St. Katherine's Dock Yacht Haven, London 1975 & 1976
Special exhibit of "Tall Ships" painted especially for the Abercrombie & Fitch
Gallery, New York, in conjunction with "Operation Sail" 1976.
One-man show, Mystic Seaport Museum, 1977; prizewinner
International Maritime Art Show, 1982 Participation in "Sea, Sails and Ports" exhibit of important marine paintings at
Kennedy galleries, New York 1977
One-man show Horton-Point Lighthouse Museum, Long Island, 1978.
Inclusion in "A Unique Marine Exhibition" at the Incurable Collector, New York, 1978, followed by special exhibit of Pearce works in March 1979, and regular exhibits of his work. Annual Show, The Royal Society of Marine Artists; London International Boat Show, from 1978.
L.J. Pearce has prepared a series of 12 "The Great 19th Century Clipperships" on fine porcelain & gilt plates for the Franklin Mint, 1982-84.
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