Peter Howson: A Retrospective

Peter Howson is a renowned figurative painter inspired by Glasgow's streets. His paintings explore the human condition, featuring heroic portrayals of the powerful and the vulnerable. His experiences of abuse have shaped his perspective, allowing him to connect with those on the margins. He was commissioned by the Imperial War Museum in 1992 to document the conflict in the former Yugoslavia and was appointed official British war artist for Bosnia in 1993. This publication showcases his diverse range of work and includes his religious pieces and responses to global events.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Sansom & Co

Peter Howson, a prominent figure in contemporary art, has garnered a remarkable reputation as one of the foremost figurative painters of his generation. The streets of Glasgow, where he was raised, serve as a rich source of inspiration for his artwork, imbuing his creations with a unique urban flavor. Renowned for his profound understanding of the human condition, Howson skillfully portrays both the powerful and the vulnerable, eliciting empathy and admiration from his audience.

Born into a challenging environment, Howson's personal experiences of abuse, whether self-inflicted or stemming from traumatic events of his childhood, have profoundly shaped his worldview and forged a deep connection with those often considered marginalized or on the fringes of society. His ability to communicate with these individuals is a testament to his exceptional talent for capturing the unconventional, the excessive, and the non-conformist.

In 1992, Howson was commissioned by the Imperial War Museum to document the conflict in the former Yugoslavia. His dedication to capturing the realities of war earned him the prestigious title of official British war artist for Bosnia in 1993. His artistic contributions were further recognized when he was awarded a Doctor of Letters at The University of Strathclyde in 1996.

Howson's artwork is held in numerous international private and public collections, showcasing his broad appeal and artistic impact. This publication, marking the first comprehensive statement about his work in nearly two decades, accompanies a major retrospective at Edinburgh City Art Centre, providing a comprehensive exploration of his artistic journey. The book showcases his exceptional skill across various media, including painting, drawing, and printmaking, and documents his religious work as well as his poignant responses to recent global events.

Through his art, Peter Howson continues to challenge societal norms, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impression on the art world. His profound insights into the human condition and his ability to connect with those often overlooked make him a true visionary in contemporary art.

Weight: 620g
Dimension: 225 x 271 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781915670052