Loved these posters, and thought,, what great gifts… soon will be in store…

Upon the outbreak of World War Two the British Government’s Ministry of Information commissioned posters to be distributed throughout the country as a means of allaying public fear. Three different posters were produced and while the first two designs were widely distributed the third poster, simply bearing the words ‘Keep Calm and Carry On’ along with the royal crown, was held in reserve intended for use only in times of extreme crisis.

Although hundreds of thousands of these posters were produced, only a handful ever saw the light of day. Even now ‘Keep Calm and Carry On’ is a phrase which perfectly encapsulates the traditional British ‘stiff upper lip’.

Originally from Northern Ireland Hazel Nicholls moved to London over six years ago to attend Camberwell College of Arts. Now a graduate, her work is influenced by a love of cross stitch and interest in old sayings and phrases.

Hazel loves Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton, the seaside, ten pin bowling, charity shops, fuzzy felt and other childhood toys. She firmly believes there is not much in the world better than a bacon sandwich and a nice cup of tea!

Last year Hazel took part in an exhibition for charity where her work adorned the same walls as some of the greats including Rob Ryan, Quentin Blake and the Chapman Brothers!