Ken Howard (1932 – 2022) The Mirror - South Bolton Garden

Ken Howard
London 1932 – 2022 Cornwall
British Painter

'The Mirror – South Bolton Garden'
Signature: Signed lower right and dated 1982
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: Image size 101,50 x 122 cm, frame size 119 x 139 cm

Biography: Kenneth Howard, a distinguished British artist and painter, was born on December 26, 1932, in London. Known as Ken Howard, he left an indelible mark on the art world with his exceptional ability to vividly capture light in both oil and watercolor paintings.

After completing his education at Kilburn Grammar School, Howard pursued his artistic studies at the Hornsey College of Art and the Royal College of Art. In 1958, he received a British Council Scholarship to Florence, marking the beginning of his extensive artistic journey.

Howard’s career took a significant turn when he served as the official war artist for the Imperial War Museum, showcasing his talent for portraying life and nature with remarkable honesty and accuracy. His travels around the world allowed him to develop a magical understanding of light, reminiscent of the works of renowned artists like J.M.W. Turner.

Throughout his illustrious career, Howard held several prestigious positions. He served as the President of the New English Art Club from 1998 to 2003, leaving a lasting impact on the art community. In 1983, he was elected an Associate of the Royal Academy, and in 1991, he became a Royal Academician.

Howard’s paintings reflected a traditional approach, characterized by strong observation, meticulous draughtsmanship, and tonal precision. The depiction of light emerged as a recurrent and powerful theme in his work. His fascination with the nude model in the studio and city scenes, particularly in Venice, showcased his emphasis on capturing the reflection of light, such as those seen in puddles after rain.

Growing up amidst London’s industrial landscape, surrounded by railway yards and factories, profoundly influenced Howard’s work. His paintings often featured horizontal and vertical structures, reflecting his unique perspective on the urban environment.

Notably, Howard’s work found a place in public collections, including the National Army Museum, Guildhall Art Gallery, Ulster Museum, and the Imperial War Museum. His exhibitions at the Royal Academy, starting in 1964, and his subsequent election as ARA in 1983 and RA in 1992, underscored the recognition and acclaim he received during his career.

Today, Ken Howard is celebrated for his unparalleled ability to fuse light and atmosphere in his paintings. His diverse range of subjects, from studio nudes to Venetian scenes and Cornish beaches, demonstrates the breadth of his artistic vision. His works are cherished in both private and public collections, including the Imperial War Museum and Plymouth City Art Gallery.

Regrettably, Ken Howard passed away in Cornwall on September 11, 2022, leaving behind a legacy of artistic brilliance. In recognition of his contributions, he was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire in the 2010 Birthday Honours.

Ken Howard received numerous prizes throughout his career, including the Lord Mayor’s Art Award (first prize) in 1996, the John Moores Exhibition in Liverpool in 1978, the John Laing Competition in 1979, the Hunting Group Awards (first prize) in 1982, the RWA prize in 1983, the Critics Prize at Sparkasse Karlsruhe in 1985, the NEAC Centenary Award in 1986, and the NEAC Critics Prize in 2001. His awards underscore the widespread recognition of his artistic talent and contributions to the world of art.