Epsom School of Art

The Epsom Technical Institute and School of Art was originally built as result of the local funding through public subscription which Lord Rosebery (5th Earl of Rosebery) was a substantial contributor. It was later transferred to the Surrey County Council in the 1930's under trust for the continuance of the art and technical education in the district. Building started on the Technical Institute in Church Street, Epsom in September 1893 the appointed architect being John Hatchard-Smith. The building in the English Renaissance style and was completed in May 1896 and the site was occupied until 1980 when it became inadequate for its purpose. It was open by Lord Rosebery and the first Principal of the Art School was William Henry Osmond (1865-1943) who held office until 1930.

In 1930, David Birch became Principal of the School of Art and remained in the post until 1961. David Birch was born in Epsom and was himself a student of William Osmond in the years prior to World War I. Over its more than 120-year existence the School has gone through several phases and name changes. The School of Art & Design was opened in April 1973. Epsom School of Art and Design merged with West Surrey College of Art and Design to become the Surrey Institute for Art and Design in 1994. Other staff and alumni include Robert Strand who was Principal, (1961-70) and students as mentioned below.