Dorothea Sharp was considered as one of the greatest artists of her time.  Born in Dartford, Kent she studied painting both in England and France. 
Her first paintings were of an academic nature.  Her style changed dramatically having seen the work of the impressionist painters and with the encouragement of George Clausen and Sir David Murray she developed a highly distinctive style.
She exhibited with considerable success at the Royal Academy and other leading London galleries.
In the 1920's she with her good friend and fellow artist Marcella Smith, moved to St. Ives - both of whom became active members of the St. Ives Society of Artists.