Alfred Wallis (1855–1942) was an English artist whose naive and distinctive style gained recognition posthumously for its charm and originality. Born in Devonport, Devon, Wallis spent much of his life as a fisherman and later worked as a marine stores dealer in St. Ives, Cornwall.

Wallis began painting late in life, around the age of 70, using discarded materials such as cardboard, driftwood, and scraps of paint. His unconventional approach to painting, characterised by bold colours, simplified forms, and a childlike innocence, set him apart from contemporary artists.

Inspired by his surroundings and experiences as a sailor, Wallis painted scenes of ships, harbours, and coastal landscapes with a raw and unfiltered perspective. His compositions often featured flattened perspectives and skewed proportions, reflecting his intuitive understanding of space and form.

Despite his lack of formal training, Wallis's work caught the attention of artists such as Ben Nicholson and Christopher Wood, who admired his raw talent and unique vision. Nicholson, in particular, championed Wallis's art and introduced him to the wider artistic community.

Although Wallis struggled financially for much of his life, his paintings gradually gained recognition and found their way into the collections of prominent art institutions and private collectors. Today, his work is celebrated for its folk art charm and its role in the development of modern British art.

Alfred Wallis's legacy as an outsider artist continues to inspire generations of artists and art enthusiasts alike. His humble yet profound paintings offer a glimpse into a world seen through the eyes of an untrained but remarkably gifted artist, whose unconventional approach to art continues to captivate audiences around the world.

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