Art UK has updated its cookies policy. By using this website you are agreeing to the use of cookies. To find out more read our updated Use of Cookies policy and our updated Privacy policy.

Painter, commercial artist, cartoonist and lecturer. Born in London, he attended Bolt Court, under Walter Bayes, 1910–15, then St Martin’s School of Art. Exhibited RA, RBA, RI and ROI, being elected RI in 1939. Was a member of the London Sketch, Chelsea Arts and Savage Clubs. Percy V Bradshaw in his book Water-colour: A Truly English Art gives examples of Riley’s briskly done watercolours, having seen him at the Savage Club “complete a portrait in oils – and frame it – in under four minutes.” Riley was a versatile entertainer, being a member of the Concert Artistes’ Association; and a tutor with Galleon Painting Holidays. Lived in London.

Text source: 'Artists in Britain Since 1945' by David Buckman (Art Dictionaries Ltd, part of Sansom & Company)


Do you know someone who would love this resource?
Tell them about it...