James Pryde

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James Pryde (30 March 1866-24 February 1941) was a Scottish artist working mainly in graphics.

He was born in Edinburgh. His sister Mabel married William Nicholson in 1893, after the two had met while studying. They formed the 'Beggarstaff Brothers' partnership, which lasted only to about 1900, exploiting woodcuts in particular in innovative poster design. ^[1]

In 1930 he designed the sets for the Paul Robeson Othello at the Savoy Theatre.

Painter of architectural fantasies and interiors; also lithographer and designer of posters. Born 30 March 1866 in Edinburgh. Studied at the R.S.A. 1886–7. His early works (1886–90) included portraits in oil and charcoal, watercolours and pastels. He then studied for three months under Bouguereau at the Académie Julian, Paris, and soon after his return settled in London c. 1890. Associated with his brother-in-law William Nicholson under the name of ‘J. & W. Beggarstaff’ 1893–c. 1899, designing posters which attracted public attention and influenced the art of poster design. Toured Scotland acting small parts with Gordon Craig 1895. Associate of the International Society from 1901; Vice-President 1921. First one-man exhibition at the Baillie Gallery 1911; also exhibited at the Goupil Gallery and the Leicester Galleries. Produced little after 1925, though he designed sets for Paul Robeson's Othello 1930. Died 24 February 1941 in Kensington. Arts Council Memorial Exhibition, Edinburgh, Brighton and Tate Gallery 1949.