Scottish painter Jack Vettriano, renowned for his evocative artwork "The Singing Butler," has died at the age of 73. His publicist announced the news, confirming Vettriano's body was found at his apartment in Nice, France, on Saturday, with no suspicious circumstances reported surrounding his death.
Born Jack Hoggan on November 17, 1951, in Methil, Fife, Vettriano began his artistic career later than many, leaving school at just 15 to work as a mining engineer. His introduction to painting came as a birthday gift from his girlfriend, who presented him with watercolours on his 21st birthday. This sparked his passion for art, prompting him to teach himself how to paint.
Vettriano drew inspiration from notable artists at the Kirkcaldy Galleries, such as Samuel Peploe and William McTaggart, often studying their works so deeply he felt he might raise suspicions among gallery staff. His breakthrough moment arrived when, during the Royal Scottish Academy's annual show in 1988, two of his paintings sold on the first day, inspiring him to pursue art as his full-time career.
One of his most famous works, "The Singing Butler," features a couple dancing on a storm-swept beach, with their butler and maid holding umbrellas over them. This painting became widely recognized and, following its auction sale for £744,800 ($944,000) in 2004, it was considered the most expensive work ever sold by a Scottish artist at the time. The success of "The Singing Butler" established Vettriano as one of the UK's best-selling artists, and his prints have become highly sought after.
Surprisingly, Vettriano's relationship with the art establishment was fraught. Critics often dismissed his work as overly commercial or lacking depth, labeling it "brainless erotica" and "crass male fantasy." Nonetheless, Vettriano responded to his detractors defiantly, stating, "They don't like an artist who is as popular as me because it takes away part of their authority. If they want to ignore me, let them. I have what I want and that's the support of the public."
This reception fueled his popularity, with many successful exhibitions held internationally, including cities like London, New York, Johannesburg, and Hong Kong. Despite the mixed reviews from art critics, his following grew, leading to commissions from high-profile figures such as Jack Nicholson, Sir Alex Ferguson, and Robbie Coltrane.
Reflecting on his personal life, Vettriano faced numerous struggles, including mental health issues and substance dependence. He attributed the beginning of his substance abuse to the aftermath of what he described as "a very destructive relationship." Vettriano discussed his battles candidly, believing his experiences influenced the emotive qualities of his art.
His publicist commented on Vettriano's lasting impact on art, stating, "Jack Vettriano's passing marks the end of an era for contemporary Scottish art. His evocative and timeless works will continue to captivate and inspire future generations." The First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney, also paid tribute, acknowledging Vettriano's significant contribution to Scottish culture.
The desire to capture moments filled with nostalgia, romance, and intrigue defined Vettriano's artistic approach. His legacy continues, embodied not only by his paintings but also through interpretations by other artists, such as Banksy's "Crude Oil (Vettriano)," which is set to auction for £3 million to £5 million, illustrating the enduring influence of Vettriano's work.
His self-portrait painted during 2009, which showcased his melancholy, has surfaced on his official Instagram page alongside messages commemorative of his contributions and legacy. The recent announcement of his death spurred reactions across social media, affirming his status as one of Scotland's iconic artists.
Throughout his career, Vettriano faced both adoration and criticism. Yet, he maintained his artistic vision, unapologetically crafting pieces deeply rooted in personal experience and emotive storytelling. Vettriano's art not only reflected his life but also the broader public’s yearning for beauty, nostalgia, and emotional connections.
Born from humble beginnings, Vettriano's rise to fame served as tangible proof of passion and dedication triumphing over adversity. The news of his demise marks not just the loss of an artist but also the closing chapter of a unique and evocative voice within contemporary art.