Jack Vettriano, born Jack Hoggan on November 17, 1951, in Methil, Fife, Scotland, is a self-taught artist who rose to prominence with his evocative and nostalgic paintings. Growing up in a working-class family, Vettriano's artistic journey began at 21 when he received a set of watercolor paints as a gift. Despite lacking formal training, he pursued his passion, transitioning to oil painting and adopting his mother’s maiden name, Vettriano, professionally. Vettriano’s breakthrough came in 1989 when his works were accepted by the Royal Scottish Academy, leading to a full-time painting career. His most famous piece, "The Singing Butler," created in 1992, epitomizes his style, blending romance and intrigue. Despite commercial success and a dedicated following, Vettriano's work has often faced critical skepticism, labeled as overly sentimental and derivative. His paintings, characterized by a cinematic quality and themes of love and mystery, have made him one of Britain’s most popular artists. In 2004, Vettriano was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his contributions to the visual arts, solidifying his place in contemporary British culture. Vettriano's work continues to captivate audiences worldwide.