The Artist's Story

John Champion Marshall (Mishy) was born in Queenstown in the Eastern Cape, South Africa on 30 June, 1918.

For many years, Mishy ran the "Durban Marshall Shoe Shop" in Cathcart Road, which his father, Durban Hamilton Marshall had started years before.
Mishy was also mayor of Queenstown for many years.

Mishy was a prolific artist and used mainly the medium of oils.
The Queenstown Art Gallery was named the JC Marshall Gallery in his honor. Sadly the historic Art Gallery was burnt down in October of 2021.
Some time before the fire, a total of 52 paintings were bequeathed to the Anne Bryant Art Gallery in East London gallery by the Queenstown fine arts department. None of JC Marshall’s paintings were among these.

Mishy was married to Bobby Collen. His daughter Fay lives in the united Kingdom, while his daughter Jean lives in the USA.

Mishy, posing with his work at the JC Marshall Art Gallery in Queenstown, named in his honor. Mishy was also known for his nature sculptures.

Mishy, as a young boy with his 4 sisters and 2 brothers.
From Left to right, Geoff (baby), Roslyn, Elaleen, JC, Shirley, Durban and Cecily

Mishy, with his mom and dad, brothers and sisters and families, circa 1950.
Top row standing, from Left to right, Ellaleen and Bev Miles, Shirley, Durban and Anita, Geoffrey, Cecily, Eric and Roslyn (seated) Filmer
Middle row sitting: JC (Mishy) and Bobby, Durban (Dad) and Natalie (Winnifred)
Bottom row, children : Colleen, Miles, Diana Miles, Lyn Filmer, Gail Filmer and Deidre Filmer