Robert Colquhoun (1914–1962) was a prominent Scottish artist whose distinctive style and expressive paintings left a lasting mark on the British art scene of the mid-20th century. Born in Kilmarnock, Scotland, Colquhoun demonstrated an early talent for drawing and painting, which led him to pursue formal art training at the Glasgow School of Art.

During his time at the Glasgow School of Art, Colquhoun met fellow artist Robert MacBryde, with whom he formed a close personal and professional partnership that would last throughout their lives. Together, they became known as the "Two Roberts" and gained recognition for their collaborative works as well as their individual artistic pursuits.

Colquhoun's early works were characterised by their bold use of colour and dynamic brushwork, reflecting his interest in expressionism and the avant-garde movements of the time. He drew inspiration from a wide range of sources, including the urban landscapes of Glasgow, the human figure, and the natural world.

In the 1940s, Colquhoun and MacBryde relocated to London, where they quickly became central figures in the city's vibrant art scene. They associated with prominent artists, writers, and intellectuals of the day, including Francis Bacon, Lucian Freud, and Dylan Thomas, among others.

Colquhoun's paintings from this period often explored themes of alienation, despair, and the human condition, reflecting the existential anxieties of the post-war era. His portraits and figure studies are particularly notable for their psychological intensity and emotional depth, capturing the inner turmoil and vulnerability of his subjects with haunting realism.

Despite their critical acclaim and growing reputation, Colquhoun and MacBryde struggled with personal demons, including issues with alcoholism and mental health. Tragically, Colquhoun's life was cut short when he died suddenly in 1962 at the age of 47, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be celebrated for its innovation, originality, and emotional power. Today, Robert Colquhoun is remembered as one of Scotland's most important artists of the 20th century, whose contributions to the world of art continue to be studied, appreciated, and admired by generations of artists and art enthusiasts alike.