Sonia Mervyn

Painter in pastel, oil and watercolour, who also taught art, both at college and privately. Sonia Mervyn completed many commissions throughout her career, and was noted for her portraits. She exhibited at all the leading London galleries, exhibiting 28 works - mainly portraits - at the RA between 1937 and 1954. Her work was admired by Sir Alfred Munnings, Sir Stanley Spencer, Dame Ethel Walker, Philip Connard and other notable artists.

The Isle of Wight, with the Needles to the right, viewed from Hurst Castle. The "Race" referred to in the title is probably one of the yacht races conducted around the island during the Summer months - possibly the Round the Island Race. Sonia Mervyn lived at Milford-on-Sea, very near the viewpoint for this painting.