Jack Vettriano, a Scottish painter with a net worth of $5 million, has captivated the art world with his film noir-inspired paintings that blend eroticism, loneliness, and a haunting sense of narrative. Born on November 17, 1951, in Scotland, the 74-year-old artist has built an empire of prints and originals that fetch impressive prices at auctions. Despite a lack of formal training, Vettriano’s unique style and storytelling ability have made him one of the United Kingdom’s richest and most popular painters. But who is the man behind “The Singing Butler,” and what shaped his remarkable journey?
Who is Jack Vettriano?
Jack Vettriano, originally named Jack Hoggan, was born into a working-class family in Fife, Scotland. He left school at the age of 16 to become an apprentice mining engineer, a profession far removed from the world of art. His passion for painting was ignited when a former girlfriend gifted him a watercolor set for his 21st birthday. Vettriano’s early works were mostly copies of impressionist paintings, with his first piece being a reproduction of Claude Monet’s “Poppy Fields.”
In 1987, Vettriano made a life-changing decision to leave his wife, Gail Cormack, and his job in educational research to pursue art full-time. He relocated to Edinburgh, adopting his mother’s maiden name, Vettriano, to mark the beginning of his new artistic identity. Despite being rejected by the University of Edinburgh’s Fine Art program, he persevered, teaching himself the craft that would eventually bring him international fame.
What Inspired Vettriano’s Unique Style?
Vettriano’s style is often described as a blend of film noir and Edward Hopper’s realism. His paintings typically feature isolated figures in dimly lit rooms, exuding a sense of mystery and melancholic romance. The artist himself has cited a mix of personal heartbreak, classic cinema, and the works of Vincent Van Gogh as significant influences.
He once revealed that his paintings are inspired by “25 years of sexual misbehaviour,” adding that he finds creativity in moments of emotional distress. This raw honesty about his muses is evident in the provocative and often controversial subjects of his work. His masterpiece, “The Singing Butler,” which depicts an elegantly dressed couple dancing on a stormy beach, is the epitome of his narrative-driven style.
Why Did Jack Hoggan Become Jack Vettriano?
The transformation from Jack Hoggan to Jack Vettriano was not merely a change of name but a reinvention of his identity as an artist. He adopted his mother’s maiden name, Vettrino, modifying it to Vettriano to add an exotic flair. This change symbolized his break from his past and his aspirations to be recognized in the art world. The decision was a strategic move to distinguish himself and create a brand around his persona and artwork.
What Makes “The Singing Butler” So Valuable?
“The Singing Butler,” painted in 1992, remains Vettriano’s most famous work and has been the best-selling print in the United Kingdom. The original painting was rejected by the Royal Academy’s summer exhibition but later sold at a Sotheby’s auction in 2004 for a staggering £744,800. The artwork’s appeal lies in its cinematic quality, combining elements of fantasy and nostalgia that resonate with a wide audience.
Interestingly, the composition of “The Singing Butler” was discovered to have been inspired by an illustration in the Illustrator’s Figure Reference Manual. This revelation sparked debates about originality in art but did little to diminish the painting’s popularity or value.
How Much Do Jack Vettriano’s Paintings Cost?
Vettriano’s works have commanded prices ranging from as little as $6 to a record-breaking $1,345,663, set by “The Singing Butler” at a Sotheby’s auction. His easel paintings typically sell for between £48,000 and £195,000. Beyond originals, Vettriano has built a lucrative business in print sales, reportedly earning around £500,000 a year in royalties. This commercial success has solidified his status as one of Britain’s wealthiest painters.
What Challenges Has Vettriano Faced in His Career?
Despite his commercial success, Vettriano has faced significant criticism from art critics who have often dismissed his work as “kitsch” and overly sentimental. His lack of formal art education and the populist appeal of his paintings have led some in the art establishment to overlook his technical skill and storytelling prowess.
Vettriano has candidly spoken about the personal toll of such criticism, admitting to battles with alcohol, depression, and reliance on anti-depressants and temazepam. In a 2010 interview, he described his life as one of “heartbreak” and acknowledged that his emotional turmoil has been a driving force behind his creativity.
Where Does Jack Vettriano Live Today?
After his divorce, Vettriano has divided his time between homes in London, Kirkcaldy, and Nice, France. The cosmopolitan lifestyle seems to complement the sophisticated and often continental themes of his paintings. Despite the public and media interest, he has maintained a relatively private life, focusing on his art and personal passions.
What is Jack Vettriano’s Legacy?
In 2004, Vettriano was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his services to the arts. His paintings, characterized by their narrative depth and evocative scenes, continue to captivate audiences worldwide. The fact that his art appeals to both the general public and a niche market of collectors underscores his impact on contemporary art.
Critics may never embrace him fully, but Jack Vettriano’s ability to tell stories through his paintings ensures that his work will remain influential and beloved. As he once said, he lives in a world of heartbreak, but from that world, he has created art that resonates with countless admirers.
