Scottish artist Jack Vettriano, celebrated for his iconic painting The Singing Butler, has passed away at 73 years old.
According to his publicist, the painter was discovered deceased at his residence in Nice, France, over the weekend.
Authorities have confirmed that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his unexpected demise.
Vettriano was a self-taught painter whose acclaimed masterpiece became the best-selling art print in the UK and set a record in Scotland after being auctioned in 2004.
Born Jack Hoggan on November 17, 1951, in Methil, Fife, he left school at 15 to pursue a career as a mining engineer, later transitioning to personnel management.
Receiving a set of watercolor paints for his 21st birthday sparked Vettriano’s passion for painting, spending countless hours teaching himself the art form.
Drawing inspiration from works at Kirkcaldy Galleries and studying artists like Samuel Peploe and William McTaggart, Vettriano honed his craft diligently, even fearing the suspicion of gallery staff.
His breakthrough came in 1989 when he sold two paintings on the first day of the Royal Scottish Academy’s annual exhibition, propelling him to become a full-time artist.
Vettriano’s art gained global recognition, leading to exhibitions in major cities such as London, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, and New York.
Critics often dismissed his work, labeling it as “brainless erotica,” “mere wallpaper,” or “crass male fantasy.” However, in defiance, Vettriano maintained that public support was more meaningful to him than the approval of elitist art critics.
Recognized for his contributions to the visual arts, Vettriano was awarded an OBE in 2003.
His most famous creation, The Singing Butler, portraying a refined couple dancing on a windswept shore with their attendants, sold at auction for a Scottish record price of £744,800 in 2004.
Banksy reimagined this iconic piece in a painting titled Crude Oil (Vettriano), now owned by Blink-182’s Mark Hoppus and anticipated to fetch between £3m and £5m at an upcoming auction in London.
While initially overlooked by galleries, Vettriano’s self-portrait, The Weight, found a permanent home at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery following its renovation in 2011.
In 2013, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum hosted the first major retrospective of his work, attracting over 136,000 visitors during its successful five-month display.
A subsequent retrospective at Kirkcaldy Galleries in 2022 delved into his formative years and early artistic career.
Vettriano contributed a portrait of Billy Connolly for a trio of monumental murals in Glasgow in 2017, commemorating the comedian’s 75th birthday as part of
Scottish First Minister John Swinney expressed his heartfelt condolences and paid tribute to the renowned artist, Jack Vettriano, following news of his passing. In a poignant statement posted on social media, Swinney lamented the loss of Vettriano, acknowledging his distinctive and impactful contribution to the artistic landscape of Scotland.
Swinney’s words resonated with sorrow as he acknowledged the passing of a creative force whose work had left an indelible mark on the art world. Vettriano’s unique style and evocative creations had captured the hearts and imaginations of many, making him a beloved figure in the realm of Scottish art.
The First Minister’s tribute highlighted the profound impact of Vettriano’s artistry, recognizing the depth and richness of his artistic vision. Through his work, Vettriano had not only showcased his exceptional talent but had also woven a tapestry of emotions and narratives that spoke to the essence of Scottish artistic expression.
Swinney’s tribute underscored the significance of Vettriano’s legacy, emphasizing the lasting impression he had made on the cultural heritage of Scotland. The artist’s passing marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that would continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.
As Scotland mourned the loss of one of its most cherished artists, Swinney’s words served as a poignant reminder of Vettriano’s enduring influence and legacy. The artist’s spirit would live on through his timeless creations, ensuring that his artistic vision would continue to resonate with art lovers around the world.
In his tribute, Swinney honored Vettriano’s memory and extended his condolences to the artist’s family, acknowledging the profound loss that his passing represented. The art world had lost a visionary, a master of his craft whose work would forever be cherished and celebrated.
The passing of Jack Vettriano marked a somber moment in the world of art, as admirers and critics alike reflected on the profound impact of his work. Swinney’s heartfelt tribute captured the essence of Vettriano’s legacy, celebrating the artist’s unique talent and enduring contribution to the artistic realm.
As Scotland bid farewell to one of its most iconic artists, the echoes of Vettriano’s creations would continue to reverberate through galleries and hearts alike. His art had transcended boundaries and touched the souls of those who had the privilege of experiencing its beauty.
In the wake of Vettriano’s passing, Swinney’s tribute stood as a poignant reminder of the artist’s enduring spirit and artistic genius. The legacy of Jack Vettriano would endure as a testament to the power of creativity and the timeless impact of art on the human soul.
Scottish First Minister John Swinney’s heartfelt tribute to the late Jack Vettriano encapsulated the profound loss felt by the art world and the enduring legacy left behind by the renowned artist. As Scotland mourned the passing of a creative visionary, the memory of Vettriano’s artistry
