John Wells (1907–2000) was a prominent British abstract artist known for his significant contributions to the St Ives School of painting and his innovative exploration of colour, form, and texture. Wells' artistic career was profoundly influenced by his move to Cornwall in 1938, where he became associated with the thriving artistic community in St Ives. Inspired by the rugged coastal landscapes and the vibrant artistic milieu of the region, Wells began to experiment with abstraction, drawing inspiration from the natural world and the play of light and colour.
In the 1940s and 1950s, Wells emerged as a leading figure in the British abstract art movement, alongside contemporaries such as Ben Nicholson, Barbara Hepworth, and Terry Frost. He was particularly interested in exploring the relationship between form and space, creating paintings and sculptures that challenged traditional notions of representation and perspective.
Wells' work is characterised by its bold use of colour, its dynamic compositions, and its expressive use of texture. He often worked with a variety of mediums, including oil paint, collage, and mixed media, allowing him to create richly layered and textured surfaces that invited viewers to engage with his work on multiple levels. In addition to his work as an artist, Wells was also a respected teacher and mentor, sharing his knowledge and passion for art with students at institutions such as the Penzance School of Art and the Bath Academy of Art.