Item NMC/2009 - Sketch of Crouching Discobolos plaster cast

George Cameron Foley was born in Bainsford, Falkirk in 1910. George had polio at a young age which left him with a paralysed right arm and hand. He was unable to learn a trade like the rest of his brothers, however his parents realising he showed artistic talent sent him to study at The Glasgow School of Art where he had won a scholarship. He studied at GSA from 1927-1932 and was awarded a Diploma in 1932.

George travelled, studied and worked extensively throughout Europe including during WWII. Some of these travels are recorded in his extensive artworks and include Budapest, Freiburg, Venice, Brittany and Paris.

George also taught art in various schools and colleges. He taught locally initially in Boness and later on in Richmond. He described himself as “a painter, engraver, sculptor, designer, author and illustrator. One of the few artists who really enjoys teaching’. He wrote and illustrated "Every Childs Book of Painting"(1961) and "Be a Watercolour Artist" (1970). He wrote and drew sketches for "Punch" and other satirical magazines and London papers. He illustrated various books and book covers for leading publishers and was the official artist to “The Dancing Times" and "Ballroom Dancing Times".

George married Margaret Leslie who was the daughter of a police constable from Linlithgow in 1942. George and Margaret lived in Richmond while George practiced in London for many years. They also lived in Abbey St Bathans and settled in Duns.