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William Heath Robinson interrogated in France, WW1
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William Heath Robinson interrogated in France, WW1
An autobiographical sketch by William Heath Robinson, published in his memoirs, My Line of Life, illustrating an incident at St. Nazaire when he visited the American Army in France. Unable to produce the correct papers to explain why he was there, he narrowly avoided arrest. Date: 1918
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Media ID 14232385
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Autobiographical Cartoonist Civilian Gendarme Heath Interrogated Memoirs Nazaire Papers Permit Permits Questioning Robinson Sketching Artists
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In this evocative black-and-white photograph, renowned British artist and illustrator William Heath Robinson sits calmly before a French gendarme during an interrogation at St. Nazaire, France, in 1918. The First World War had brought the artist to the front lines, not as a soldier, but as a civilian seeking inspiration for his work. Heath Robinson, known for his whimsical and intricate cartoons and drawings, had traveled to France to observe the war firsthand. Armed with only his sketchbook and pencils, he hoped to capture the essence of the conflict and its impact on the people. However, the wartime tension and the strict regulations enforced by the French authorities proved to be a challenge. As he went about his work, Heath Robinson was stopped by the gendarme, who demanded to see his papers. The artist, unable to produce the necessary permits, found himself facing the possibility of arrest. With a cool composure, he explained his purpose for being there and showed his sketchbook as evidence. The gendarme, seemingly satisfied, allowed him to continue his work, sparing Heath Robinson from a potentially dangerous situation. This incident, which Heath Robinson later recounted in his memoirs, "My Line of Life," serves as a testament to the artist's determination and resourcefulness. The photograph, with its stark contrasts and tense atmosphere, provides a glimpse into the challenges and uncertainties faced by artists during wartime. The image remains a powerful reminder of the role art plays in capturing history and the lengths artists will go to bring truth and understanding to their audiences.
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