Sir Terry Frost RA

Sir Terry Frost (1915–2003)

Celebrated British abstract artist known for his bold use of color, geometric forms, and dynamic compositions. His work, inspired by the landscapes of Cornwall and his love for rhythm and movement, positioned him as one of the most influential figures in post-war British abstract art.

Born Terence Ernest Manitou Frost on October 13, 1915, in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, he left school at 14 and worked in various jobs before enlisting in the army during World War II. In 1941, he was captured in Crete and spent four years as a prisoner of war in Bavaria. It was during this time that he discovered his passion for painting, encouraged by fellow prisoner and artist Adrian Heath.

After the war, Frost pursued formal art education, attending Birmingham College of Art and later the Camberwell School of Art, where he was taught by influential modernist artists such as Victor Pasmore and Ben Nicholson. In 1946, he moved to Cornwall, joining the artistic community of St Ives, which deeply influenced his development as an abstract painter.

Frost’s work is characterized by vibrant color palettes and a strong sense of rhythm, often inspired by natural elements such as the sea, the sun, and boats. He had his first solo exhibition in London in 1952 and gained international recognition with exhibitions in New York in the 1960s. Throughout his career, he also worked as a teacher, mentoring younger artists at institutions such as the University of Reading, where he became a Professor of Painting.

His achievements were widely recognized; he was elected a Royal Academician in 1992 and was knighted in 1998 for his services to art. A major retrospective of his work was held at the Royal Academy of Arts in 2000.

Frost was married to Kathleen Clarke, and they had six children, including two artists, Adrian and Anthony Frost. He passed away on September 1, 2003, in Newlyn, Cornwall. His legacy lives on through his pioneering contributions to British abstract art, celebrated in collections worldwide.

Works by the Artist

Christmas Tree & Boat

Sir Terry Frost RA

Lucy Harwood