Lilian Holt

Lilian Thirza Charlotte Holt (married name Bomberg; formerly Mendelson; 26 July 1898 – 13 May 1983) was a British painter and founding member of the Borough Group. Holt's dedication to her partner and family limited her career and opportunities as an artist.

Early life and education Holt was born on 26 July 1898 in Putney, Wandsworth to Oliver Oswald Holt, a civil servant, and Kate Holt (died 1905). The youngest of four siblings, Holt's brother Jack died whilst serving in the First World War. In 1922, Holt studied at Regent Street Polytechnic.

Career In 1924, Holt married Jacob Mendelson and subsequently gave birth to their daughter, the painter Dinora Mendelson. Holt and Bomberg moved to Ronda in Spain from 1954 to 1957, before returning to England due to Bomberg's failing health. After his death, Holt focused on her own work, travelling to, often remote areas of, Mexico, Basutoland, Andalusia, Yugoslavia, Morocco, Turkey, and Iceland to paint, as well as continuing to promote Bomberg's legacy.

Holt's painting Tajo, Ronda (1956) is in the permanent collection of the Tate Gallery.

Personal life In 1924, Holt married Jacob Mendelson (1891–1972), an art and antique dealer of Russian descent. The couple later separated before later divorcing in 1928.

In 1941, Holt married the painter David Bomberg with whom she had one daughter, Diana (1935–1974).

On 13 May 1983, Holt died in London aged 84.