This collection largely consists of correspondence to and from Stanley Spencer and his writings on himself, his paintings, religion and his relationships. The correspondence dates from the late 1930s, with the majority coming from the 1940s and 1950s. Important correspondents include: the British Broadcasting Corporation, Mary and Louis Behrend (patrons and founders of Sandham Memorial Chapel, Burghclere), Spencer's sister Florence Image, his first wife Hilda, his children Unity and Shirin, John and Elizabeth Rothenstein and the Tate, and Arthur Tooth and Sons (his agents). The collection also contains Spencer's writings, notebooks and diaries. Spencer was a prolific writer who appeared to use his writings as an opportunity to expand or refine his ideas for paintings, and his personal thoughts. Along with his letters, the continuous writings, notebooks and diaries often contain detailed descriptions of his paintings, compositions and schemes; his opinions on art, life, philosophy, religion and sex; and his autobiography and preparation for a proposed book. The collection is completed by a number of sketches and drawings by Spencer, the majority of which relate to larger, painted works; and some printed ephemera including press cuttings, photographs, postcards, private view cards and exhibition catalogues.
