The author of a biography of one of Britain’s most distinguished portrait painters is furious that Waterstones has refused to stock it.
Documentary maker and writer Peter Williams says the snub is an insult to the illustrious career of Kent artist John Ward, who even gave drawing lessons to the future King Charles.
Peter Williams with his new biography of distinguished Kent artist John Ward
But bosses of the national bookstore chain believe there would be “insufficient demand” for the hardback, called John Ward: “A Delightful Nonsense”.
Mr Williams told KentOnline: “I find it extraordinary that Waterstones, especially in Canterbury, will not stock a book about the life of one of the city’s most significant and talented characters.“
Mr Ward, who painted portraits of members of the Royal family, lived at Bilting near Ashford.
His work is exhibited at the National Portrait Gallery as well as the Beaney Art Gallery in Canterbury.
He served in the Royal Engineers in the Second World War and used his drawing skills to design pillboxes in Kent.
Waterstones in Canterbury city centre
A past member of the Royal Academy, Mr Ward was given Freedom of the City of Canterbury and made a CBE in 1985 for his contribution to the arts. He died in 2007, aged 89.
Among the subjects for his portraits were Princess Anne, plus Prince William and Prince Harry at their christenings.
Mr Williams’ biography is the first detailed study of his life and is supported by the Ward family.
But the author was shocked and disappointed to receive the rejection from Waterstones, which came in an email exchange with a senior manager.
“They said that previous books featuring Ward had not sold well,” Mr Williams said.
Artist John Ward in his studio. Picture: Jane Hardy
“But this is the first official biography and they currently have nothing else about him on their shelves.
“It’s very disappointing and I’m very surprised that they would snub someone of Ward’s repute and standing
“I’ve had people contact me and say they went to Waterstones to buy the book, only to be told it wasn’t available.
“It’s available through Amazon, of course, but I don’t know how Waterstones can consider John Ward as not being worthy of a place on their shelves.”
Mr Ward’s portraits also include many of the stars of stage and screen, including Joyce Grenfell and Joanna Lumley.
John Ward showing Prince Charles the murals in Challock Church
A book illustrator, he provided the pictures for Laurie Lee’s classic memoir Cider With Rosie.
He also created an invitation for a national tribute held to celebrate the 100th birthday of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.
Mr Ward was a guest at Charles and Diana’s wedding in 1981 and later taught the future king to paint during several private trips – including one on board HMS Britannia, bound for Venice.
Mr Williams’ book about the artist’s life has been endorsed by the Professor of Journalism at London’s City University, Suzanne Franks, who says: “This fascinating biography of a remarkable artist is a who’s who of the 20th century.
“But it is also a tale of music, art, love and laughter rooted in the beauty of the English countryside.”
John Ward’s fine painting of actress Joyce Grenfell
Professor of English at the University of Kent, Michael Irwin, describes it as “an attractively-written sketch book account of a great Kent artist’s life”.
Waterstones has been contacted for a comment.