Stroud's Artistic Tradition

For those who are keen antique collectors, you may have heard of the famous Lantern Clocks produced in Stroud in the late 1600's by master craftsman, William Holloway. Internationally sought as collector items, some rare pieces can be found in the Museum in the Park.  These were made in Holloway's workshop in the High Street.

The first communal acknowledgement of Stroud's artistic tradition came with the building of the School of Art 1860's, in Lansdown. The carved facade shows portraits of famous Victorian artists, craftsmen and scientists, including a great patron, Queen Victoria herself. The building is ornate and celebrates architectural craftsmanship at its best.

Today, Stroud has now overtaken Cornwall as the number one home of artists and authors. So whether you bump into Jilly Cooper in Waitrose or attend Katie Fforde's bookgroup, whether you are looking for Pottery, Jewellery, Woodwork, Photography, Waxworks, A Choral Society, Glass blowing... or just about anything, Stroud is almost certain to have it!

From January 2016, this website is managed by Stroud Local History Society

SM Holloway Clock IMG 2198
GRO The Museum in the Park IMG 1284
GRO The School of Art Lansdown IMG 1422