DA25002 Guild of Railway Artists (1985) V01 200725

 Purchase from a charity shop in Lyme Regis and intend to PDF on Etsy.

Here’s a glimpse of The Great Western Collection—a striking volume showcasing paintings by members of the Guild of Railway Artists, accompanied by Brian Hollingsworth’s historical commentary.

Who Is Brian Hollingsworth, M.A.?

• Full name: John Brian Hollingsworth (listed as J. B. Hollingsworth, b. 1923) .

• Though specific biographical details on his education (like confirmation of an M.A.) are scarce, his body of published work reflects deep expertise in railway history and locomotive engineering.

The Great Western Collection (1985)

• Role: Hollingsworth serves as the author of the “Explanation”—a well-informed historical overview of the Great Western Railway (GWR, 1835–1985), spanning from its inception to contemporary context. .

• Content: This large-format book (approximately 160 pages) contains around 60 full-color artworks by Guild members, visually tracing the evolution of the GWR over 150 years. .

• Publication details: Originally published by Blandford Press in Poole (1985), with limited deluxe editions (e.g., numbered copies within 500) and later reprints such as from New Orchard Editions in 1989 and Orion Publishing Group in 1988. .

Hollingsworth’s Broader Works

Brian Hollingsworth has authored or co-authored several notable railway-related titles:

• The Great Book of Trains (1987)

• Illustrated Directory of Trains of the World (2000)

• The Pleasures of Railways (1983)

• Ffestiniog Adventure (1981)

• Illustrated Encyclopaedia of the World’s Modern Locomotives (with Arthur Cook, 1984)

• Railways of the World (1986)

• Atlas of the World’s Railways (1980)

• The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of North American Locomotives (1987)

…and more, including thematic works on steam locomotives and model railways .

Overall, his publishing history displays a consistent focus on railway systems, locomotive types, historical narratives, and technical directories.

Summary: Who Is Brian Hollingsworth?

Aspect Details

Name John Brian Hollingsworth (J. B. Hollingsworth)

Known For Writing historical and pictorial narratives on railways

Notable Work The Great Western Collection—artistic and historical tribute to GWR

Other Publications Numerous railway encyclopedias, atlases, and histories

Let me know if you’d like details on any of his other publications or further insights into the artworks featured in The Great Western Collection!