It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of
Charles Thompson
Born in Poona, India, Charles was educated at La Martiniere College in Lucknow. His path to becoming a celebrated artist was anything but conventional. He had no formal art training and did not take up oil painting until 1979. Before that, he trained as a draughtsman with the Ford Motor Company and completed National Service with the Royal Air Force in 1955–56. He went on to spend 37 years with Ford, styling automobiles in England, Germany, and America before taking early retirement in 1986.
Retirement marked the beginning of another remarkable chapter. Charles devoted himself to painting and became an important figure in the worlds of aviation and motoring art. He served as a full member and chairman of the Guild of Aviation Artists, was a founder-member of the Guild of Motoring Artists, an Artist Fellow of the American Society of Aviation Artists, and a Master Artist of America’s Experimental Aircraft Association.
Yet Charles’s legacy extends far beyond his considerable artistic accomplishments. He was a passionate advocate for observational drawing and plein air painting, believing deeply in the importance of looking carefully, drawing from life, and continually learning. He generously shared that knowledge with others, serving as a mentor and inspiration to countless artists. He had an extraordinary ability to encourage people—not simply through instruction, but through his enthusiasm, curiosity, and genuine belief in their abilities.
“Grit your teeth and do the work”
Those who knew Charles will remember not only his talent, but his wit, warmth, kindness, and wonderful sense of humor. He possessed a quick mind and a delightfully sharp wit, often able to find humor in a situation and bring a smile to those around him. He was generous with his time, thoughtful in his advice, and unfailingly encouraging. Whether discussing art, aviation, automobiles, or simply sharing a story, Charles had a way of making people feel welcome and valued.
He leaves behind a remarkable body of work and, perhaps more importantly, a community of artists, colleagues, students, and friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him. His influence will continue through the people he taught, encouraged, and inspired.
Our deepest sympathies are extended to Charles’s family, friends, colleagues, and to all who knew and loved him. He will be remembered with great affection and gratitude, and he will be deeply missed.
Videos of his remarkable work and technique can be viewed here