Renowned Scottish painter Jack Vettriano has passed away at the age of 73, his publicist confirmed.
The artist was discovered deceased at his residence in Nice, located in the south of France, on Saturday.
There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
Pic: Neil Hanna/PA
The Singing Butler became a best-selling image in Britain. Pic: PA
Vettriano, originally Jack Hoggan, was born on 17 November 1951 in Methil, Fife.
He abandoned school at 15 to pursue mining engineering but transitioned to painting after receiving watercolors as a gift from his girlfriend for his 21st birthday.
The self-taught artist honed his skills by replicating works of old masters, impressionists, surrealists, and various Scottish artists.
He drew inspiration from pieces at Kirkcaldy Galleries, closely studying paintings by artists like Samuel Peploe and William McTaggart, sometimes even cautious of gallery staff noticing his profound interest.
Sweet Bird Of Youth. Pic: Jack Vettriano/PA
The Billy Boys. Pic: Jack Vettriano/PA
In 1998, he gained recognition when two of his paintings sold on the first day of the Royal Scottish Academy’s annual exhibition, prompting him to pursue a full-time career as an artist.
Vettriano’s art earned global acclaim, leading to exhibitions in major cities including Edinburgh, London, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, and New York.
His painting “The Singing Butler” from 1992 is among his most renowned works, achieving significant popularity in Britain as a best-selling image. The artwork depicts a sophisticated couple dancing on a beach in a storm, accompanied by their butler and maid.
In 2004, the painting sold at auction for £744,800, setting a record for any Scottish painting at the time and for any painting ever sold in Scotland.
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Notable individuals who acquired Vettriano’s paintings include Hollywood icon Jack Nicholson, former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, songwriter Sir Tim Rice, and the late Harry Potter actor Robbie Coltrane.
In a statement, his publicist expressed, “Jack Vettriano’s passing signifies the end of a significant period for contemporary Scottish art.
His timeless and poignant works will continue to captivate and inspire future generations.”
Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney was one of many who paid tribute to Vettriano.
He remarked, “Heartfelt condolences to the family of Jack Vettriano, one of Scotland’s most renowned artists.
“Having made a profound artistic contribution to Scotland from his humble beginnings as a self-taught artist in Methil, Jack rose to fame with iconic pieces like The Singing Butler, admired globally and exhibited in homes and galleries worldwide.
“Born and raised in Fife, Jack’s early exposure to art at Kirkcaldy Galleries influenced some of his earliest artworks, which were later displayed there.
“Jack was also a generous supporter of various important causes, and his absence will be deeply felt by many in Scotland and beyond.”
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar shared on social media, “Very sad news. Jack Vettriano was an iconic Scottish artist. My thoughts are with his family and friends.”