1895–1978
An Artist's Perspective on Conflict and Creativity
Keith Vaughan, a British painter who emerged as a commanding figure in post-war art, left an indelible mark on the art world through his innovative approach to the male figure and his ability to blend figurative and abstract elements.
KEITH VAUGHAN
The Wall at Ashton Gifford // 1942
EARLY LIFE
Keith Vaughan's artistic journey began in the late 1930s when he abandoned a career in advertising to pursue painting. Born in 1912 in Selsey, Vaughan was largely self-taught as an artist. During World War II, Vaughan served in the Non-Combatant Corps, having initially joined the St John's Ambulance as an intending conscientious objector. Vaughan's paintings from this time, such as "The Wall at Ashton Gifford" (1942) reflect his experiences and the landscapes around him during his military service.
Vaughan's early artistic endeavours were marked by a fascination with the male figure, a theme that would persist throughout his career. His work during this period was characterised by a blend of figurative and abstract elements, influenced by artists such as Paul Cézanne and Henri Matisse. This period laid the foundation for Vaughan's distinctive style, which would evolve over the years.
Idol // 1940
THE JOURNAL: A WINDOW INTO THE SOUL
Vaughan's journal, spanning 38 years and 61 volumes, is a testament to his inner life and artistic journey. Commenced in 1939, just before the outbreak of World War II, the journal offers a deeply personal account of his thoughts, struggles, and artistic evolution. Unlike contemporaneous diary projects by figures like Stephen Spender and Simone de Beauvoir, Vaughan's journal was a lifelong endeavour, reflecting his continuous self-construction and reinvention.
The journal reveals Vaughan's complex relationship with his art and his identity. It was a space where he grappled with feelings of failure and dissatisfaction, despite his public success as an artist. His writings offer a candid exploration of his sexuality and personal struggles, providing a raw and unfiltered perspective on his life.
Group of Figures (Blue) // 1962-1966
Acrobats // 1955
ARTISTIC EVOLUTION & INFLUENCES
Throughout the 1950s, Vaughan's work continued to evolve as he sought to reconcile figurative and abstract elements in his paintings. Influences from artists like Nicolas De Stael played a crucial role in this development, enabling Vaughan to create compositions that balanced male nudes with abstract environments. His series of nine "Assemblies," begun in 1952, exemplifies this synthesis and marks a significant period in his artistic career.
Vaughan's travels to the Mediterranean, North Africa, Mexico, and the USA further enriched his artistic vision, exposing him to diverse cultures and landscapes that influenced his work. His teaching roles at institutions like the Camberwell School of Art and the Slade School of Fine Art allowed him to share his insights and inspire a new generation of artists.
The Rectory Garden // 1956
THE FINAL YEARS: REFLECTION & COURAGE
In the final years of his life, Vaughan faced a painful battle with cancer, which profoundly impacted his art and writing. His journal entries from this period reflect a deep introspection and a re-evaluation of his life's work. Vaughan's final journal volume, commenced in 1975, serves as a poignant reflection on his life, infused with nostalgia and a sense of closure.
Despite his physical suffering, Vaughan's commitment to his art and writing remained unwavering. His final act of courage was to document his decision to end his life, providing a powerful testament to his belief in the honourable nature of his choice. This final entry in his journal is a profound expression of his artistic and personal journey, encapsulating the essence of his life and work.
Coast Defences (Seaford, E.Sussex) // c.1952
LEGACY AND IMPACT
Keith Vaughan's impact on the art world is enduring. His innovative approach to the male figure and his ability to blend figurative and abstract elements set him apart as a visionary artist. Vaughan's work continues to be celebrated for its emotional depth and technical mastery.
His journal, a monumental work in its own right, offers invaluable insights into the mind of an artist who was constantly questioning and redefining himself. It stands as a unique literary and artistic document, providing a window into the soul of a man who was both a celebrated artist and a deeply introspective individual.
Lagoon, Boys on a Punt // 1948
Aegaen // 1960
A LIFE IN ART
Keith Vaughan's life and art are a testament to the power of creativity and self-expression. His journey from advertising to becoming a leading figure in British art is a story of courage, innovation, and relentless pursuit of artistic truth. Vaughan's legacy lives on through his paintings and writings, inspiring future generations to explore the depths of their own creativity and to embrace the complexities of the human experience.
His final act of documenting his suicide is a powerful reminder of his unwavering commitment to authenticity and artistic expression, leaving an indelible mark on the art world.