Peter Howson has established a formidable reputation as one of his generation's leading figurative painters. Born in London in 1958, he moved to Scotland as a small child and has lived there since. The themes of his powerful art derive from his deep involvement with Scottish culture, above all the street life of Glasgow. Along with other major talents from Glasgow School of Art, Howson burst on to the scene in 1985, taking part in the seminal exhibition, New Image Glasgow. International recognition followed rapidly, and Howson is now widely known for his penetrating and vigorous evocations of the human condition. Robert Heller explores the genesis and significance of the work of an artist who, relatively early in his career, has already achieved major stature.