Harry Hoodless (1913–1997) was a well-known British artist, renowned for his work in oil and tempera, as well as his significant contributions as an art teacher. Born in Leeds, he commenced his artistic journey at the College of Art in his hometown from 1929 to 1933. He continued his studies at the Royal College of Art from 1933 to 1936, where he had the privilege of learning under notable teachers such as Edward Bawden and Eric Ravilious.

After completing his education, Hoodless embarked on a career that seamlessly blended his passion for creating art and imparting knowledge. He started teaching at the Norwich School of Art from 1936 to 1939. His dedication to education led him to the Laird School of Art in Birkenhead, where he not only taught from 1939 to 1976 but also rose to the position of principal in 1946.

Harry Hoodless gained recognition for his distinctive landscapes, which often depicted dockyard debris and decay. Influenced by artists like Georges Seurat, Edward Wadsworth, Tristram Hillier, and Graham Sutherland, Hoodless's work reflected a keen eye for capturing the beauty within industrial decay.

A respected member of the Liverpool Academy and the Wirral Society of Arts, Hoodless exhibited his works at prestigious venues, including the Royal Academy, Leeds City Art Gallery, Bluecoat Gallery in Liverpool, and the Atkinson Art Gallery in Southport. Noteworthy galleries, such as the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool and the Williamson Art Gallery in Birkenhead, continue to hold and showcase his artwork.

Harry Hoodless's legacy endures through both his artistic contributions and his impact as an educator. His landscapes, marked by a unique blend of artistic influences and a fascination with industrial landscapes, remain an integral part of the British art scene. Hoodless's commitment to teaching and his ability to find beauty in the overlooked have left an indelible mark on the art community.