Scottie Wilson (1888-1972) was a Scottish outsider artist renowned for his unique and colorful drawings that often featured fantastical creatures, flowers, birds, and intricate patterns. Born Louis Freeman in Glasgow, Scotland, Wilson began his artistic career relatively late in life. After serving in World War I, he ran a second-hand shop in London, where he first began drawing in the 1930s, using simple fountain pens.
Wilson’s art was characterized by an untrained, instinctive style that defied traditional artistic norms, aligning him with the Art Brut movement. His work caught the attention of notable artists like Jean Dubuffet and Pablo Picasso, who admired his raw, unfiltered expression and imaginative vision. Despite achieving some fame, Wilson remained detached from the art world’s formalities, often selling his works on street corners or in flea markets.
Scottie Wilson’s art is celebrated for its vibrant energy, originality, and the purity of his vision, standing as a testament to the power of untrained, visionary art. Today, his works are displayed in major collections, including the Tate Gallery in London.