The Stockport Viaduct: A Landmark in Art and History
The Stockport Viaduct: A Landmark in Art and History
The Stockport Viaduct is one of the most striking architectural features in the North West of England. Built between 1839 and 1840, it was a major feat of engineering at the time and remains one of the largest brick structures in the UK. Standing 111 feet tall and stretching over 1,800 feet, it was designed to carry the Manchester to Birmingham railway over the River Mersey. With its 27 imposing arches and its prominent red-brick construction, the viaduct has become an enduring symbol of Stockport’s industrial heritage.
The Viaduct in Art
For nearly two centuries, the Stockport Viaduct has inspired artists who have captured its scale and presence in different styles. One of the most famous depictions is L.S. Lowry’s 1960 painting “Stockport Viaduct”, which presents the structure in his signature industrial style, with muted tones and a populated foreground. The viaduct also appeared in the works of Frederick William Jackson, a Manchester-born artist known for his landscapes. The sheer size and character of the viaduct make it an ideal subject for painters who appreciate both architectural grandeur and urban life.
Chaz Newton-Smith’s Approach
For Chaz Newton-Smith, painting the Stockport Viaduct was a natural challenge. Known for his expressive, abstract style, Chaz was drawn to the way the viaduct dominates the skyline while also blending into the daily life of Stockport. Rather than aiming for a detailed, representational image, his focus was on capturing the mood and energy of the scene—the movement of trains, the interplay of light against the red brick, and the contrast between the man-made structure and the ever-changing sky.
Using bold, textured brushstrokes, Chaz’s interpretation of the viaduct leans into the dramatic shifts in light and weather, making it a dynamic part of the landscape rather than a static landmark. His work follows in the tradition of artists like Lowry but with a modern, expressive twist that emphasizes movement and atmosphere.
See the Viaduct at The Springfield House Gallery
Chaz’s Stockport Viaduct paintings are now part of his collection at The Springfield House Gallery, where they sit alongside other works that explore the urban and architectural character of Stockport and Manchester.
Want to see them in person? Book an appointment to visit the gallery.