William Connor

Born 1881: died 1968
Probably the most popular and representative Belfast painter of his generation, Connor was the son of a tinsmith and gas-fitter. He produced war art in both world wars. He spent time in London after World War 1 and knew Sir John Lavery, Augustus John, the Café Royal circle and the Chelsea Arts Club. In 1921 he was commissioned to paint the opening of the Stormont Parliament by King George V and Queen Mary. He received and honorary MA from the Queen's University and was awarded a Civil List Pension in 1959.