A Life of Diverse Pursuits
Charles Yates Fell was a man of many talents, a New Zealander whose life spanned the realms of law, politics, and the arts. Born in Nelson, he was the son of merchant Alfred Fell. His education took him from Nelson to London, where he attended King's College School, and eventually to St John's College, Oxford, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts.
Beyond his academic achievements, Fell was a prominent figure in his community. He served as the Mayor of Nelson and was a barrister, practicing in both England and New Zealand. His professional life included roles as the Crown Solicitor, Registrar of the Diocese of Nelson, and governor of Nelson College. He was also a skilled photographer, focusing on portraits and landscapes, and a talented musician who supported the Nelson School of Music.
Artistic Endeavors and Works
While he had painted in watercolour during his time at King's College, Fell did not begin to paint seriously until later in life. He was a member of the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts and served as a trustee of the Bishop Suter Art Gallery in Nelson from its inception until his death. In his final years, he accompanied Henry Morland Gore on a sketching tour of the Maitai Valley.
His artistic legacy is preserved through several notable works, including:
Other works, such as Country Scene, Nelson, are held in private collections. His daughter, Sylvia Brockett, also pursued the arts as a watercolourist and stamp designer.
