New – John Thompson

This week we have a wonderful selection of original paintings on show in our Wilmslow Gallery by the late Oldham artist John Thompson.

Since his death in 2011, John Thompson’s original works have become increasingly difficult to acquire so we are thrilled to have such a wonderful selection currently on show.

John Thompson (1924–2011) was a self-taught British artist from Oldham, Lancashire, renowned for his evocative depictions of working-class life in Northern England. His art, often compared to that of L.S. Lowry, captures the essence of industrial communities through expressive linework and distinctive color palettes.

Early Life and Artistic Development

Born into a working-class family in Oldham, Thompson left school at 14 to support his family. Without formal art education, he honed his skills by copying postcards and ocean liner advertisements, later attending life drawing classes to refine his technique. His early experiences deeply influenced his artistic focus on the everyday lives of Northern communities.   

Artistic Style and Themes

Thompson’s work is characterized by portrayals of groups of working men, often depicted in cloth caps, loitering in industrial settings. His paintings, such as “What Next” (2010), showcase a unique blend of wiry illustrations and muted colour gradients, reflecting the somber yet resilient spirit of his subjects.   

Recognition and Legacy

Though his recognition was gradual, Thompson gained significant acclaim in the early 2000s. He held successful solo exhibitions in Manchester and Dublin, and in 2002, three of his paintings were acquired by the House of Lords for display in the Committee Rooms. His work has been featured on Channel 4 and Granada TV, further cementing his status in the British art scene.   

Thompson’s art continues to be celebrated for its authentic portrayal of Northern England’s working-class heritage, offering a poignant glimpse into a bygone era.

We hope you can visit our Cheshire art gallery on Water Lane in Wilmslow to enjoy John’s wonderful nostalgic works in person.  View and purchase online too on our John Thompson gallery page here.