Peter Howson

Peter Howson at his retrospective in May 2023 sq (cropped)

Peter Howson (born 27 March 1958) is a Scottish painter known for his powerful and often controversial works. He is recognized for his distinctive style, which often features muscular figures and explores themes of human suffering, conflict, and redemption.

Early Life and Education

Peter Howson was born in London, England, but his family moved to Glasgow, Scotland when he was four years old. He attended the Glasgow School of Art from 1975 to 1977 and again from 1979 to 1981. During his time at the Glasgow School of Art, Howson developed his unique style and began to gain recognition for his work.

Career

Howson's career took off in the 1980s when he became associated with the New Glasgow Boys, a group of artists that included Steven Campbell, Ken Currie, and Adrian Wiszniewski. His work from this period often depicted the working-class men of Glasgow, rendered in a bold, almost brutal style.

In the 1990s, Howson was appointed as the official war artist for the Bosnian War. His experiences in Bosnia had a profound impact on his work, leading to a series of harrowing paintings that depicted the horrors of war. These works brought him international acclaim and further established his reputation as a significant contemporary artist.

Style and Themes

Peter Howson's art is characterized by its intense emotional impact and its exploration of the darker aspects of human experience. His figures are often exaggerated and muscular, conveying a sense of strength and vulnerability. Common themes in his work include conflict, suffering, redemption, and the human condition.

Personal Life

Howson has been open about his struggles with mental health issues, including depression and autism spectrum disorder. He has also spoken about his battles with addiction and how these experiences have influenced his art.

Exhibitions and Collections

Peter Howson's work has been exhibited widely, both in the UK and internationally. His paintings are held in numerous public and private collections, including the Tate Gallery, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, and the Imperial War Museum.

Legacy

Peter Howson is regarded as one of Scotland's most important contemporary artists. His work continues to provoke and inspire, offering a powerful commentary on the human condition.

See Also

• New Glasgow Boys
• Glasgow School of Art
• Bosnian War