From 1925 to 1964,artist Cyril Lewis sketched over 400 scenes of Long Island. A total of 186 of these sketches were published in 1964 in a book Historical Long Island Paintings and Sketches. The book became a popular reference resources for schools and libraries.
The book included sketches of historic sites in the community which will be featured on rsolynlandmarks.org. The first in the series are views of the village and the Roslyn Mill Tea House.
Adapted from Cyrilalewisaws.com
Cyril A. Lewis (1903-1994), a notable and distinguished artist, was born in Birmingham, England. At the age of 12 he drew a pencil portrait of Queen Elizabeth and William Gladstone and was awarded a silver watch and further encouraged to pursue the arts. He attended Birmingham College of Arts and Crafts on scholarships and spent several years in advertising art. At 24 he sailed to America and opened his studio in the Flat Iron building in NYC and set to work in advertising. In 1935 he married Ruth Wilson, moved to East Williston, Long Island, and raised his three children: Audrey Lewis Johnson, Richard Lewis and David Lewis.
In 1938 he became an American Citizen. He painted many different subjects on the island. Historical Long Island Paintings and Sketches, illustrated by Mr. Lewis became widely popular in schools and libraries.
He was a noted historian, painter, devoted Christian and even a violinist. He was awarded three Gold Medals, nine travel awards and over 100 prestigious awards including first prize at the 1940 World’s Fair as well as numerous other citations. His work was has been displayed in museums and galleries throughout the USA. He served as president of the Brooklyn Society of Artists, President of the Art League of Nassau County, active in the Audubon Artists Group and active the Salmagundi Club of New York and Honorary Vice President of American Water Color Society.
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