author
Harold Speed
1873–1957
Known for both his paintings and his classic art manuals, this English artist helped generations of readers think more deeply about drawing, design, and painting. His books are still widely read for their clear, practical approach.
1 Audiobook
The Practice and Science of Drawing
by Harold Speed
About the author
Born in London in 1872, Harold Speed became an English painter in oil and watercolour, working on portraits, figure subjects, and historical scenes. He studied at the Royal Academy Schools after first training in architecture, and he later exhibited widely, including in Paris.
He is especially remembered today for the artist instruction books he wrote, including The Practice and Science of Drawing and The Science and Practice of Oil Painting. Those books have stayed in print for many years because they combine hands-on advice with thoughtful ideas about what makes art feel alive and convincing.
Although the date you gave lists 1873–1957, the most consistent sources I found give his life dates as 11 February 1872 to 20 March 1957. That small correction aside, his legacy is clear: he was both a serious working painter and a gifted teacher on the page.