"An utterly compelling read - the depth of research is unparalleled and changes the understanding of Alfred Wallis's painting in so many ways. Anybody interested in his work and life needs to read this biography."
Andrew Wilson, former Senior Curator of Modern and Contemporary British Art at Tate Britain
"I am in complete awe of what you have produced in your Wallis book. It is an incredible piece of scholarship. It has completely transformed my understanding and respect for Wallis’s work."
David Tovey, art historian and author
"A tour de force and will undoubtedly be a huge success. Every character, event, vessel and place is backed up with the honest answers to all the questions none of us thought to ask (even Sven Berlin) but with clarity - it is such an easy read. A masterclass in focussed and comprehensive writing."
Sonia Aarons, author and biographer of Sven Berlin
"Matilda Webb has conducted extensive research on Alfred Wallis, which will prove of great benefit to art historians and interested individuals alike. The book offers a truly exciting and in-depth insight into the work of Alfred Wallis."
Zander Collection, Germany
"Matilda Webb strikes the balance between elegant, accessible storytelling and deep insight into the life of Wallis and his art, approaching this first true biography with a level of diligence in her research, to date unseen in any previous accounts."
Andrew Blair, Wallis family descendant
"This definitive work on Alfred Wallis is a brilliantly researched biography, superbly illustrated and presented, with an absorbing free flowing narrative...This year's must read!"
Andy Smith, Curator St.Ives Museum
"A wonderfully researched book. I'm really enjoying it. Already, so many revelations to me - his brother's flogging, Winifred being written out of the "discovery" and the incorrect hanging angle of Schooner Under the Moon. I really like that detail."
Ian Rastrick, Art Collector
"Beautifully written, minutely researched and wonderfully illustrated - this book will stand as the definitive work on the life and art of Alfred Wallis."
Tony Farrell, Wallis/Ward family descendant and St Ives historian
"I am in awe about the vast amount of work you have done. Excellent mentioning Mum and Dad, they would be proud. I am wondering now what my 12 burnt paintings showed. The beauty of your book is the references to information. Very well done and presented - thank you."
Den Ward, Wallis/Ward family descendant
"Very moreish and tremendously enjoyable. Academic rigour and readability are not usually found together!"
Jane Bowring, friend
"I was very lucky to buy this book a month ago. At a price of £45 I really consider that it should have been more.
The care and time that has been put in is seriously amazing."
J Grant, customer
"An engaging read filled with significant detail of this unique artist's life. A beautiful book to own."
Beth Grossman, friend
"Although much has been written about Wallis’s life, this is far the most complete account that has been written to date…There are many new nuggets of information generally for Wallis aficionados…It all makes for a fascinating read."
James Scott, art critic
"Fascinating reading and difficult to put down. When I first encountered AW's work many years ago I initially was inclined to consider it without much artistic worth but have now completely changed my opinion."
Simon Green, art enthusiast
"The Tome has arrived! It is huge and massively heavy, but looks amazing. Wow! Great illustrations, maps, diagrams etc. I am blown away by it. Think you have done a really fantastic job."
Liz Toll, aunt