John Minton (1917–1957) was an influential English artist known for his contributions to the Neo-Romantic movement and his versatile talents as a painter, illustrator, and teacher. Born on December 25, 1917, in Great Shelford, Cambridgeshire, Minton's artistic career flourished in post-war Britain, leaving a lasting impact on the art scene of the time.

Minton studied at the St John's Wood School of Art and later at the Royal College of Art, where he developed his distinctive style. Influenced by artists such as Samuel Palmer and William Blake, Minton's early works displayed a romantic and mystical quality, often exploring themes of nature, solitude, and introspection.

During World War II, Minton served in the Royal Air Force, an experience that influenced his later works and contributed to a more somber tone in his art. Post-war, he became associated with the Neo-Romantic movement, a response to the societal changes and traumas of the era.

As a talented illustrator, Minton contributed to various publications, including book covers, posters, and illustrations for novels. His work for the Shell Guides, a series of guidebooks to British regions, gained particular acclaim for its vibrant and evocative depictions of landscapes.

Minton's teaching career included positions at Camberwell School of Arts and Crafts and the Royal College of Art, where he inspired a new generation of artists. His impact extended beyond his artistic output, influencing the cultural and educational landscape of the time.

The artist's personal life was marked by struggles with his mental health, and tragically, Minton committed suicide on January 20, 1957, at the age of 39. Despite his relatively short career, John Minton's legacy endures through his distinctive artistic vision, his role in the Neo-Romantic movement, and his influence on both the art world and the students he mentored. His works continue to be appreciated for their emotive and atmospheric qualities, capturing a unique moment in the post-war British cultural milieu.