His breakthrough came in 1988 when two of his paintings sold on the first day at the Royal Scottish Academy's annual show. This success led to exhibitions in Edinburgh, London, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, and New York City. In 1992, his painting The Singing Butler became one of the UK's best-selling art prints, solidifying his place in contemporary art.
Despite critical dismissal by some art critics, Vettriano's work resonated with a broad audience. His paintings, such as The Innocents (1993), Bad Boy, Good Girl (1994), and After The Thrill Is Gone (1994), explored themes of love, desire and melancholy. His art was featured in various media, including books and film, and his patrons included notable figures like actor Jack Nicholson and lyricist Tim Rice.
Vettriano was honoured for his contributions to the arts, receiving an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003 and an honorary Doctor of Letters degree from the University of St Andrews. He also established a scholarship at the university to support students pursuing art.
In his later years, Vettriano lived in Nice, France, where he passed away in 2025 at the age of 73.
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
Suddenly Last Summer
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
Lounge Lizards II
JACK VETTRIANO (b. 1951)
Study for 'Bluebird at Bonneville'
JACK VETTRIANO (b. 1951)
Heaven on Earth
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
The Bedroom
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
A Sinister Turn of Emotion I
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
Dancing Couple
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
Study for 'Suddenly One Summer'
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
A Sinister Turn of Emotion II
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
Midnight Blue - study
JACK VETTRIANO (B. 1951)
The Assessors
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
A Woman Must Have Everything
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
Night moves
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
Right Time, Right Place
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
Untitled
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
Playing the Party Game
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
The Perfect Gent
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
Knightsbridge 7am
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
The Great Deal
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
After the Dance
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
Descent into Hell
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
Artist's studio
Jack Vettriano (b. 1951)
Cheating Hearts