William Feaver

William Feaver is a painter, writer, curator and former Observer art critic. His small-scale paintings depict the rhythms of the natural landscape, with a strong sensibility for light and colour. Much of his work draws from rural scenery across Northern England, particularly Northumberland, with which he has a longstanding connection. After taking up a fellowship in Newcastle from 1971 – 1973, Feaver developed a sustained academic interest in the Ashington Group, forming the basis of his book Pitmen Painters.

He has curated several major exhibitions and authored acclaimed books on artists such as Lucian Freud and Frank Auerbach. Key examples include Lucian Freud’s 2002 retrospective at Tate Britain, Museo Correr and locations in Barcelona and Los Angeles, as well as the 2012 exhibition of Freud’s drawings in London and New York. As well as studying and exhibiting his work, Feaver co-curated the John Constable exhibition at the Grand Palais with Freud in 2002.

Outside his work as a curator, critic and writer, Feaver sat weekly for Frank Auerbach from 2003 until Auerbach’s death in 2024, and has worked extensively as a broadcaster. He has produced several films with Jake Auerbach including Lucian Freud Portraits and The Last Art Film. His book, Pitmen Painters, was adapted for the stage by Lee Hall and has been performed internationally since 2007. He is on the Academic Board of the Royal Drawing School where he also currently tutors.