Fred Monks Display

A display of ties designed by local artist Fred Monks (1912-1982).

Fred Monks started his artistic career as a designer at Crosfields soap factory in Warrington before becoming a cartoonist for the Guardian newspapers and then a watercolourist known for his spontaneous local paintings from nature. But unknown to all but a few, Monks also had a second prolific career as a graphic artist including his designs for novelty ties. On show in the museum are a selection of the luminous ties Monks designed for sale during the early 1950s. These examples have been treated with zinc sulphide-based paints and would glow in the dark after having been held up to the light for a few seconds.

Also on show in the library are a further selection of ties Monks designed for sale during the early 1950s, including some commemorating Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation and cowboy hero Roy Rogers.

With thanks to Fred Monks’ family for sharing these items.