"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
"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
"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
"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
"This definitive work on Alfred Wallis is a brilliantly researched biography, superbly illustrated and presented, with an absorbing free flowing narrative."
Andrew Smith, Curator St.Ives Museum
"The book is beautiful, such sumptuous reproductions and photos, and just a glance reveals the wealth of scholarship. I can see that this is a book to live with, and I look forward to having its presence in my life for many years to come."
Cornelius Browne, artist and writer
"An outstanding book. I thoroughly enjoyed and admired the scrupulous research, engagement with characters who are uncovered, and the thoughtful and insightful discussion of the paintings. Alfred Wallis is fortunate to have found such a thorough, sensitive and sympathetic biographer."
Dr Stewart Brown, University of Birmingham
"A magnificent piece of scholarship, which at the same time is easy to read. I've admired the paintings for many years but they acquire a new dimension when viewed with the detailed biographical information uncovered. The sensitive question of whether Alfred was unfairly exploited by Nicholson, Stokes and others is handled very well. This is a book I shall return to again and again."
Dr Andrew Walker, Alfred Wallis enthusiast
"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
"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
"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
"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
"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
"Very moreish and tremendously enjoyable. Academic rigour and readability are not usually found together!"
Jane Bowring, customer