Laird School of Art

The School of Art was located in Birkenhead, Merseyside and was the first public school of art outside London. It was given to the town by shipping magnate John Laird, (1805-1874). The school opened its door in September 1871 and existed for 108 years until it closed in 1979. Its closure was due to its merger with Birkenhead College of Technology and during its existence was often referred to as Birkenhead School of Art. Two of its more well-known attendees were Principal Harry Hoodless and as a student abstract artist Henry Mundy.