Jack Vettriano, the self-taught Scottish painter celebrated for his evocative Neorealist works, has tragically passed away at the age of 73. He was found lifeless at his apartment in Nice, France on March 1, 2025. The news of his death was confirmed by his publicist, who noted there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his passing, attributing it to natural causes.
Born Jack Hoggan on November 17, 1951, in Methil, Fife, Vettriano was not always the household name he became known for. Leaving school at the tender age of 15, he worked initially as a miner, following the footsteps of his father. It wasn’t until his 21st birthday when he received watercolors as a gift from his then-girlfriend, sparking his passion for painting. This marked the beginning of his artistic career, albeit as a self-taught hobby.
Vettriano’s big break came unexpectedly in 1989 when he submitted two paintings to the Royal Scottish Academy’s annual exhibition, both of which sold on the very first day. This pivotal moment encouraged him to pursue art as his primary profession. His unique style, often mixing themes of love, nostalgia, and sensuality against the backdrop of Scotland, quickly gained him international recognition.
His most famous piece, 'The Singing Butler', depicts a couple dancing on the beach, with their butler and maid holding umbrellas against the moody Scottish sky. Initially sold for only £3,000, the painting later became a cultural phenomenon, fetching £744,800 at auction in 2004. Vettriano’s artworks have continued to thrive, with reproductions of ‘The Singing Butler’ selling over one million prints worldwide. The piece’s imagery evokes nostalgia, combined with Vettriano’s hallmark escapism—“It’s where we’d all like to be at some point,” he remarked about the painting.
Despite his commercial success and immense popularity with the general public, Vettriano was frequently criticized by art critics who labeled his work as lowbrow or “brainless erotica.” Nonetheless, he remained unfazed by the dismissive opinions of the art establishment. "They don’t like an artist as popular as me because it takes away part of their authority. If they want to ignore me, let them,” he said. “I have what I want, which is the public’s support. That means far more than the approval of well-educated art buffs.”
Vettriano's legacy continues to resonate within the art world. His self-portrait, 'The Weight', was displayed prominently at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery following its reopening after renovations. Notably, major retrospectives showcasing his work have been held at esteemed venues such as Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and Kirkcaldy Galleries, each drawing significant attendance.
His works have been supported by numerous notable figures, including actors Jack Nicholson and Robbie Coltrane, who collected pieces from the artist. Vettriano also made contributions to public art, such as the series of murals honoring comedian Billy Connolly, presented during his 75th birthday celebrations.
Central to Vettriano’s identity was his candor about personal struggles, including those with mental health and substance dependency. He openly navigated his challenges, taking time to reflect on his artistic process. His publicist remarked on his passing as “the end of an era for contemporary Scottish art,” stressing the impact of Vettriano’s evocative artistry on future generations.
Scottish First Minister John Swinney offered condolences upon learning of his death, expressing his sorrow for the loss of such a pivotal figure: “He made a unique and evocative contribution to artistic life in Scotland.”
Jack Vettriano’s departure marks not only the loss of a gifted artist but also the closing chapter of his unique narrative, defined by resilience amid the pressure of external perceptions and expectations. His ability to capture moments of intimacy and beauty will undoubtedly continue to inspire and resonate with art lovers for years to come.