Uploaded June 2021 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
In our latest release for our London exhibition ‘In Air and Fire: War Artists, the Battle of Britain and the Blitz’ art historian Dr Jonathan Black (Kingston University) discusses Official War Artist Eric Kennington’s portraits of ‘The Few’ from the RAF Fighter and Bomber Commands.
Kennington received a long-term commission with the Air Ministry where he spent two years producing portraits of high-ranking servicemen, portraying them as square-jawed heroes, fresh from action. Some of the men he represented died within months of sitting for their portraits, while others went on to achieve lengthy distinguished careers with the RAF.
To see works featured in the exhibition, including Eric Kennington’s portraits, why not consult our Collections Online here: collections.rafmuseum.org.uk
Entry to the exhibition (in Hangar 3’s Art Gallery), and to the Museum, is free of charge. To pre-book your timed entry, please visit: rafmuseum.org.uk/london
Interview by Curator Julia Beaumont-Jones
In our latest release for our London exhibition ‘In Air and Fire: War Artists, the Battle of Britain and the Blitz’ art historian Dr Jonathan Black (Kingston University) discusses Official War Artist Eric Kennington’s portraits of ‘The Few’ from the RAF Fighter and Bomber Commands.
Kennington received a long-term commission with the Air Ministry where he spent two years producing portraits of high-ranking servicemen, portraying them as square-jawed heroes, fresh from action. Some of the men he represented died within months of sitting for their portraits, while others went on to achieve lengthy distinguished careers with the RAF.
To see works featured in the exhibition, including Eric Kennington’s portraits, why not consult our Collections Online here: collections.rafmuseum.org.uk
Entry to the exhibition (in Hangar 3’s Art Gallery), and to the Museum, is free of charge. To pre-book your timed entry, please visit: rafmuseum.org.uk/london
Interview by Curator Julia Beaumont-Jones
