William Tillyer

William Tillyer, a British artist renowned for his expertise in painting, watercolor, and the rich tradition of printmaking, has carved a niche for himself in the art world. He is particularly celebrated for his abstract watercolors and oil paintings, often drawing inspiration from the masterpieces of eminent artists such as John Constable, J.M.W. Turner, and Nicolas Poussin.

Biography of William Tillyer

William Tillyer, born in 1938 in Middlesbrough, United Kingdom, emerged as a distinguished artist whose journey through the realms of painting and printmaking left an indelible mark on the art world.

Tillyer's artistic odyssey commenced at the Middlesbrough College of Art, where he delved into the nuances of painting from 1956 to 1959. His insatiable passion for art led him to the bustling streets of London in the 1960s, where he honed his craft at the prestigious Slade School of Art.

Even in his early years, Tillyer's talent was unmistakable. In 1959, his paintings "Painting" and "Sea, Clouds and Beach" (both 1958) were showcased in the esteemed 'Young Contemporaries' exhibition, a testament to his burgeoning artistic prowess.

Seeking further artistic enrichment, Tillyer embarked on a transformative journey to Paris on a French Government Scholarship, immersing himself in the art of gravure under the tutelage of Stanley William Hayter at Atelier 17.

Upon his return to England in 1963, Tillyer's artistic journey took him from Notting Hill to the familiar embrace of Middlesbrough. During this time, he encountered both financial hardship and artistic enlightenment.

The turning point in Tillyer's career came in 1968 when he garnered international acclaim at the Second International Print Biennale in Kraków. This pivotal moment paved the way for a longstanding partnership with Bernard Jacobson, his esteemed dealer.

Tillyer's artistic repertoire expanded over the years, with his work gracing the walls of prestigious institutions worldwide, including the Brooklyn Art Museum, Museum of Modern Art in New York, and Tate in London.