Augustus John (1878 - 1961)

Painter mainly in oil. draughtsman and printmaker. Born in Tenhy, Wales, brother of the artist Gwen John, he attended the Slade School of Fine Art, 1894-8, winning a Scholarship in 1896 and the Summer Composition Prize two years later. John's prodigious natural ability as a draughtsman won the admiration of Henry Tonks, and lie soon established himself as a star student and an art world character. Became professor of painting at Liverpool University art school, 1901-4. John started an association with gypsies, learning their language and painting them. Began his wide travels in Britain and on the continent, sometimes travelling by caravan. Over several years painted with J D Innes and Derwent Lees. Started to exhibit widely, having his first one-marl show at the Carfax Gallery in 1903. Also showed at the Chenil Galleries, NEAC, Alpine Gallery, Independent Club, RA and elsewhere over the coming years, where he became noted f