Opera Bouffe

After an apprenticeship to his silversmith father, Spurrier studied art and became a freelance magazine illustrator contributing to such magazines as The Graphic, Illustrated London News and the Radio Times. He also produced posters for theatrical productions and illustrated books. From 1913 he exhibited his paintings at the Royal Academy, a favourite theme being circus performers. During the First World War he worked with the Admiralty developing dazzle camouflage for ships. He exhibited at the Royal Academy from 1913, was made an associate member in 1945 and became a full member of the Academy in 1952. The theatre and circus were popular subjects for Spurrier’s exhibited works and he also produced posters for theatrical productions. Works by him are in the collection of the Imperial War Museum, Tate Gallery and many other public collections.