William Roberts (1895–1980) was a prominent British painter and war artist known for his distinctive style and profound influence on British modernism. Born in Hackney, London, Roberts displayed artistic talent from a young age and began formal art training at the Slade School of Fine Art in 1910.

During his early years at the Slade, Roberts was heavily influenced by the teachings of Henry Tonks and Frederick Brown, whose emphasis on drawing and form would leave a lasting impression on his work. Despite his initial struggles at the Slade, Roberts persevered and soon began to develop his own unique style, characterised by bold lines, geometric shapes, and a vivid use of colour.

In 1914, Roberts enlisted in the Royal Field Artillery and served as a gunner during World War I. His experiences during the war would profoundly impact his artistic vision, inspiring him to create a series of powerful and emotive works that depicted the harsh realities of combat and the human cost of war.

After the war, Roberts returned to London and continued to develop his artistic practice, gaining recognition for his striking paintings of urban life and working-class culture. He became associated with the Vorticist movement, a British avant-garde art movement inspired by the energy and dynamism of the modern city.

Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, Roberts established himself as a leading figure in British modernism, exhibiting his work extensively and earning critical acclaim for his innovative approach to painting. He became known for his bold compositions and stylised figures, which captured the essence of modernity and urban life in interwar Britain.

During World War II, Roberts served as an official war artist, producing a series of powerful paintings that documented life on the home front and the impact of the conflict on British society. His wartime works are characterised by their poignant depictions of everyday life during a time of national crisis, offering a unique insight into the human experience of war.

After the war, Roberts continued to paint prolifically, exploring new themes and styles while remaining true to his modernist roots. He became known for his keen observation of human behavior and his ability to capture the essence of a moment with remarkable clarity and insight.

Throughout his career, Roberts received numerous awards and honours for his contributions to British art, including the title of Royal Academician in 1956. His work is held in collections around the world, including the Tate Gallery in London and the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.

William Roberts passed away in 1980, leaving behind a rich legacy of art that continues to inspire and influence artists to this day. His bold and innovative approach to painting, coupled with his unwavering commitment to depicting the realities of modern life, cemented his reputation as one of the most important British artists of the 20th century.