
Donald Playford - Artist

(above) Evening Gazette 1977
AUG 2022: Paintings from Don's school art teacher
I was delighted to receive these 2 originals out of the blue from Michael Greenwell, the son of Don’s art teacher Mr. Greenwell at Langbaurgh School. They are from 1969/70 when Don was 15/16. Fantastic talent at such a young age. Thank you Michael for getting in touch.
2018: The Hunt Collection

Earlier this year, I was contacted by Paul and Ann Hunt of Felixstowe who had 3 of Don’s paintings. They were commissioned by Paul’s mother who was one of Don’s teachers at Langbaurgh School in Middlesbrough c1970 when Don was just 16. Many Thanks to Paul and Ann for presenting me with the paintings on a recent visit to the North East. A great addition to the collection.
2013: Lost Art Located!

2013: The Coulson Collection
Two and a half years after I put up this tribute and appeal, it has finally yielded a result – a collection of some of Don’s long lost artwork! In 1978 & 79, Don was commissioned to produce 10 paintings of birds by a Teesside bank manager. Over Xmas, I got a call from that man; Mr.Coulson (above), now retired and living in the Dales. In early January, I went to see the work with Ray Playford (Don’s brother and my cousin – above right). After 35 years, they were a little faded but are definitely some of Don’s greatest work. Many thanks to Mr. Coulson for getting in touch and allowing us to take pics of them to include on this page. Here’s hoping this is the first of many such calls…who knows how many paintings are out there?
WANTED:
Don’s original artwork or info regarding its whereabouts –
to photograph or scan to add to this tribute gallery
Please email me craig@pancrack.tv