Ian McKie (1951-2009)
Ian McKie created the website of the Bewick Society in 2002, hosted by Newcastle University. He re-designed it in 2008. He did all the scanning and design, for the website, completely preparing it for uploading to the University server. He died suddenly in the midst of a severe asthma attack at the age of 58 on 31st August, 2009. Ian was the IT guru of the Bewick Society, not only in website matters, but also in the production of the Cherryburn Times, where he managed all aspects of image production, scanning the images, refining them, preparing for print in the best achievable quality. Without him, the Bewick Society might have just faded away; with him the Society has managed to join the digital age. He will be sorely missed.
Contributions are invited from anyone having information of interest and value in respect of the works and lives of the Bewicks (Thomas, John and Robert) and their apprentices, competitors and followers in the art of wood–engraving. The editor would prefer to receive these in electronic format (Microsoft Word) with good quality images (medium resolution jpegs – between 1000–2000 pixels), but simple hard copy might be accepted if the contributor does not have access to a computer. We are particularly anxious to receive contributions from abroad – Europe, America, Australia and the Far East have members of the Bewick Society, and unexpected sources would always attract our especial interest.
The editor’s e–mail address is dws.gray@blueyonder.co.uk