Cecil Leonard Burns, born in 1863, left an indelible mark on the late 19th and early 20th-century art scene A pupil of Sir Hubert von Herkomer RA at the Bushey School of Art, Burns exhibited his works at prestigious venues like the Royal Academy and the Society of British Artists His role as the Principal of the Camberwell School of Arts and Crafts from 1897 to 1899 and later as the Principal of the Sir JJ School of Art in Bombay until 1918 showcased his commitment to arts education

Tragically, the scarcity of Burns' artworks can be attributed to a devastating docks fire in Southampton that consumed his possessions upon his return from India Despite this setback, the surviving pieces reveal his penchant for capturing picturesque landscapes, Indian river scenes, and idealized portraits of children As an advocate of 'en plain air' painting in both watercolor and oils, Burns contributed significantly to the artistic discourse of his time Today, his legacy endures through collections like the Southwark Art Collection, Bushey Museum and Art Gallery, and scattered private collections in the UK and USA, ensuring that the work of this prolific artist continues to captivate audiences Cecil Leonard Burns passed away in 1929, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the limitations of time