Tributes to inspirational portrait artist

Mrs Pannett, who died in Rustington on August 22, was born on July 15 1911 at Hove, Sussex, the fifth of seven children.

From a very early age Juliet was determined to become an artist and at the age of 16 she was offered a place at Brighton Art School. By the age of 18 she was producing several series of drawings for the local papers and magazines of local characters and sportsmen.

Dan Thompson, of Worthing art group RAG, said: "She became well known for her drawings of jazz musicians, and was then commissioned to complete a series of royal portraits. These included Prince Andrew and Prince Edward, both of which were commissioned as gifts to the Queen.

"Juliet also painted two portraits of the Queen, as well as completing commercial illustrations for Radio Times, book publishers and London Illustrated News. From 1973-1992, Juliet led the Pannett art courses from her home in Angmering."

Dan added: "Any artist who can move effortlessly from drawing in jazz clubs to reserving their own seat in the press gallery at the House of Commons has my admiration!

"While it's easy to dismiss drawing skills in this age of conceptual art, you can't but admire Juliet's skills. I particularly like her sketches of an elderly Winston Churchill."

Full story in West Sussex Gazette, September 8