Free learning resources from arts, cultural and heritage organisations.

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The Importance of the Shop Building

Paintings and the Use of the Colour Gold

The painting below was commissioned in the 1950s. The artist was asked to create a series of paintings showing the original M&S Penny Bazaars and this one is at Grainger Market in Newcastle upon Tyne. You can see the red and gold signage that later changed to the more familiar green and gold.

Van Jones painting of M&S Penny Bazaar, Grainger Market
M&S Penny Bazaar Painting

The signs below were made in the 1950s as part of a replica Penny Bazaar stall. They show us how Michael Marks' signs might have looked.
Replica M&S Penny Bazaar Signs
Replica M&S Penny Bazaar Signs

This photo below from the Marks in Time exhibition shows some of the different types of signs that have been used by M&S over time.

Marks in Time Exhibition Displays
Marks in Time Exhibition Displays