Objects of Substance- Libellum Motif

By 1934, Cottew was clearly having success with her students: Irene Hingston (III C) reveals a sophisticated peacock like pattern, as does Evelyn Lesley Marland’s drawing of the Grammar girls sitting studiously beside their tower of books that are topped with ink wells and paper.

Irene Hingston (III C) December 1934, page 20

Evelyn (Lesly) Marsland (IV B) December 1934, page 14

Grammar girls in action appeared as a theme in later frieze designs which displayed the girls in their sports tunics participating in dance [Judith Clowes (III E) 1938] or in formal school uniform leisurely reading [Patricia Lahey 1939] or demonstrating gymnastics routines [Colleen.J. Gregg (IV A) 1942]. Like the revelation of an ancient Roman mosaic, the Grammar students’ tiles provide a window into the past, confirming the school uniforms of their era, hairstyles and their activities.

Judith Clowes (III E) June 1938, page 19