Penn Studio

Penn Studio is a studio building located behind No. 13 Rudall Crescent, constructed between 1880 and 1900. It is made of rendered brick and features a gabled slate roof that is hipped over the canted end, topped with a cast-iron finial.

The exterior is a single storey with a canted front, which includes a stepped band cornice, a parapet, and coping. The entrance has a large moulded panel double door with a 2 x 6 pane overlight and a keystone that extends into the cornice. To the right of the entrance is a sash window. The studio extends back, reaching the full height of the roof pitch, and is finished with pine boarding. It has glazed lights at the hip over the canted end and a skylight on the south pitch of the roof.

Although the interior was not inspected, it is noted to have a sculpture gallery at eaves level. At the far end of the studio, opposite the entrance, there is a staircase leading up to a gallery with pierced splay balusters that have a slightly Art Nouveau detail. There is also a bedroom adjoining at an angle to the left side, which features a lantern light.

Historically, the studio is significant as it was the residence of artist Mark Gertler from 1915 to 1932. During his time there, he created some of his most important works, including "Merry-go-Round" and various still lifes. He also executed a brief foray into sculpture with "Acrobats" in 1916, which may be linked to the gantry in the studio. The studio was later occupied by sculptor Roselli and was visited by notable figures such as Aldous Huxley, Dora Carrington, John and Paul Nash, Richard Carline, DH Lawrence, Roger Fry, Lady Ottoline Morrell, and members of the Bloomsbury group.