John Ronald Craigie Aitchison CBE RSA RA (13 January 1926 – 21 December 2009) was a Scottish painter renowned for his distinctive use of color, simplicity of form, and recurring themes of religious imagery, landscapes, and portraits. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Aitchison initially studied law at the University of Edinburgh before deciding to pursue a career in art. He studied at the Slade School of Fine Art in London, where he developed his unique style.
Aitchison's work is characterized by its vibrant color palette, often featuring pinks, reds, and blues, and its minimalist approach. His paintings frequently included symbolic and religious elements. He was best known for his many paintings of the Crucifixion, one of which hangs behind the altar in the chapter house of Liverpool Cathedral, Italian landscapes, and portraits. Despite the religious themes, Aitchison's work is not overtly religious but rather uses these symbols to explore universal themes. His career-long fascination with the crucifixion was triggered by a visit to see Salvador Dalí's Christ of St John of the Cross in 1951 after it was acquired by the Kelvingrove Gallery.
His simple style with bright, childlike colours defied description, and was compared to the Scottish Colourists, primitivists or naive artists, although Brian Sewell dismissed him as "a painter of too considered trifles". Despite the religious themes, Aitchison's work is not overtly religious but rather uses these symbols to explore universal themes.
Aitchison was also known for his portraits and still lifes, often depicting dogs, particularly Bedlington Terriers, and simple everyday objects. His style remained consistent throughout his career, marked by a sense of calm and clarity. Aitchison gained recognition and acclaim for his work, receiving several awards, including being elected a Royal Academician in 1988.
Craigie Aitchison's art is celebrated for its emotional depth, unique use of color, and timeless quality. He passed away in London in 2009, leaving behind a legacy as one of Britain's most distinctive modern painters.