Piper, John (1903-1992), became one of the United Kingdom’s leading artists. He used many media, and beginning in 1935, his works show a distinctive, abstract style. However, starting about 1940, Piper turned to a more realistic style, painting English landscape scenes in a personal, romantic style. He designed stained-glass windows for the new Coventry Cathedral, which were completed in 1962, and for the Eton College Chapel, which were completed in 1963. Some of his topographical paintings were commissioned by Queen Elizabeth II. Many of his more stirring paintings show scenes of destruction during World War II (1939-1945). Piper also designed sets for plays and operas and was a noted printmaker.
Piper was born on Dec. 13, 1903, in Epsom, Surrey, England, and educated at Epsom College and the Royal College of Art. He wrote several architectural guidebooks to English counties, often in collaboration with his friend, the poet Sir John Betjeman. Piper also wrote British Romantic Artists (1942). He died on June 27, 1992. Edward Piper, his son, became a noted painter, photographer, and graphic designer.
