Born in Oldham, Lancashire John Bowes was educated at Manchester Grammar School and attended the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, in World War I. Was professional singer, while also painting, for 20 years until 1943, then when became deaf took up full-time painting. Was made member of RCamA in 1965, also joining Manchester and Liverpool Academies, Manchester Society of Modern Painters and Lancashire Group of Artists. Had solo shows starting with 1946 at Salford Art Gallery, including retrospective at Atkinson Art Gallery, Southport, 1971. Public galleries in Derby, Liverpool, Salford, Southport and Newcastle upon Tyne hold his work. Lived in Southport, Lancashire.

Vigorously painted. expressionist style still-life of flowers in a vase. Signed lower right. Framed.