Scottish painter Jack Vettriano dead at 73
The celebrated Scottish painter Jack Vettriano has passed away at the age of 73 as the art world mourns his passing.
Vettriano, the Fife-born artist who is best known for his 1992 oil painting ‘The Singing Butler’, was found dead at his home in Nice, south of France, on Saturday, his publicist confirmed – adding that no suspicious circumstances were involved.
A self-taught visionary, Vettriano learned his trade as a young man, taking inspiration from works in the local Kirkcaldy Galleries. He rose to prominence in 1998 after submitting two of his paintings to the Royal Scottish Academy’s annual show.
When both pieces sold within the first day, it was the pivotal moment that prompted him to pursue a full-time career as an artist.
His most esteemed work, ‘The Singing Butler’, set a Scottish record when sold at auction for £744,800 in 2004. Afterwards, Vettriano’s work was coveted by the likes of Jack Nicholson, Robbie Coltrane, and Sir Alex Ferguson.
His publicist commented that: “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.”
His passing will be duly mourned by swathes of the population.
