This particular work, entitled ‘The Strength Machine’ can be dated to the late 1950s and is a perfect encapsulation of post-war Britain. Rodney or Rod Warbrick was born in Liverpool in 1933. At the age of sixteen he enrolled at the Liverpool College of art where he studied both painting and print-making. He remained there completing his course but shortly after graduating was called up for his National Service. He was secconded in the British Army and was stationed in Singapore where he remained for two years. During his time in the Far East, and in order to pursue his artistic leanings he taught art as a volunteer at the British Council. In addition he also spent time at the St. Andrew’s School teaching students painting and drawing. He would teach artist’s ………. who would become renowned painters in their own rights.
At the end of his National Service he returned to Liverpool and commenced his career as a professional artist. To supplement his income he taught art during the 1960s at the Quarry Bank High School in Liverpool. This school is best remembered now for its most famous student, John Lennon. He enjoyed painting landscapes and images of buildings which are now found in a number of prominent collections in the United Kingdom
