Henry Tonks (1862–1937) was a prominent British artist and influential teacher known for his contributions to both the medical field and the world of art. Born in Solihull, England, Tonks initially studied medicine at King's College London and later trained as a surgeon at St. Thomas's Hospital.

Despite his success in medicine, Tonks felt drawn to the world of art and decided to pursue a career as an artist. He enrolled at the Slade School of Fine Art in London, where he studied under the renowned painter Alphonse Legros. Under Legros' tutelage, Tonks developed a strong foundation in drawing and draftsmanship, skills that would later become hallmarks of his artistic style.

Tonks quickly established himself as a talented and innovative artist, specialising in portraiture and figure studies. His work often depicted scenes of everyday life, capturing the nuances of human expression with remarkable sensitivity and insight. Tonks' portraits are characterised by their attention to detail and emotional depth, reflecting his keen observation skills and deep understanding of human anatomy.

In addition to his work as a practicing artist, Tonks was also a dedicated educator. In 1892, he joined the staff of the Slade School of Fine Art as a drawing instructor, and in 1910, he was appointed Professor of Fine Art. During his tenure at the Slade, Tonks became known for his rigorous teaching methods and high standards of excellence. He emphasised the importance of academic drawing and encouraged his students to study the human form with precision and accuracy.

One of Tonks' most notable contributions to the field of art education was his development of the "life room" method, a teaching technique that involved drawing directly from live models. This approach revolutionised art instruction and had a profound influence on generations of artists.

In addition to his work at the Slade, Tonks also served as a surgeon during World War I, where he used his artistic skills to document the devastating effects of facial injuries on soldiers. His drawings played a crucial role in advancing the field of plastic surgery and helping to improve the treatment of wounded soldiers.

Today, Henry Tonks is remembered as a pioneering figure in both the medical and artistic communities. His contributions to the fields of art and medicine continue to be celebrated, and his legacy lives on through the countless artists and medical professionals he inspired throughout his lifetime.