Two of Glasgow's most celebrated contemporary artists, Peter Howson and Ross Muir, have unveiled their highly anticipated collaborative painting titled 'Two Sons,' which was revealed to the public for the first time on November 27. The groundbreaking artwork represents a creative reimagining of Muir's viral 2018 piece 'Square Gogh,' now enhanced with Howson's distinctive muscular painting style that has made him one of Scotland's most recognizable artists.
The new collaborative masterpiece depicts Vincent van Gogh rendered in Howson's powerful, robust artistic technique, while Muir adds his signature contemporary twist by dressing the Dutch master in a retro Adidas tracksuit. The painting, executed in oils on a 108 cm by 90 cm linen canvas, features a background that echoes the unmistakable swirling patterns of van Gogh's iconic 'Starry Night,' complete with two suns that symbolically represent the merging of both artists' creative worlds.
The collaboration between these two Glasgow art scene luminaries began through a chance encounter while they were walking their dogs in a park in Glasgow's west end. During this serendipitous meeting, Muir introduced himself to Howson, acknowledging the established artist as a constant source of inspiration throughout his career and artistic development.
Reflecting on their unexpected partnership, Peter Howson expressed his admiration for his collaborator's talents: 'When I first met Ross and he showed me his work I knew that here was an artist who had outstanding ability and an amazing imagination.' The veteran artist's endorsement carries significant weight in the Scottish art community, given his international recognition and acclaimed body of work.
Ross Muir, whose original 'Square Gogh' painting achieved viral status in 2018 and became a modern Scottish cultural icon, was equally enthusiastic about the collaboration. 'Working with Peter has been unreal in the best possible way. He's one of the greatest living artists of our time, and I've looked up to him since the day I first picked up a brush,' Muir explained. 'You can't escape his influence in the Glasgow art scene - his work is everywhere, in the best collections and in every conversation about painting. And when you finally see a Howson piece in the flesh, you understand exactly why.'
The younger artist described the collaboration as both destiny and pure chance, adding: 'This isn't just a dream come true, but pure chance and fate at work. For it to begin with a simple dog walk still blows my mind. Two Sons is both of us on the canvas, exactly as we are.' His original 'Square Gogh' piece had previously gained such recognition that it was loaned to the National Museums Liverpool for exhibition before finding its place in a private collection.
To celebrate the unveiling of 'Two Sons,' both artists have announced a limited-edition release of 200 fine art prints, each personally co-signed by Howson and Muir. These exclusive prints are now available for purchase through RossMuirArt.com, as well as at the prestigious GoMA (Gallery of Modern Art) and Kelvingrove Museum stores in Glasgow, making the collaboration accessible to a broader audience of art enthusiasts and collectors.
The original 'Two Sons' painting itself is scheduled to go on public display in 2026 at a venue that has yet to be disclosed, allowing art lovers to experience the collaborative masterpiece firsthand. Following its public exhibition, the artwork will be sold through private channels, likely commanding significant attention from collectors given both artists' reputations and the unique nature of their partnership. This collaboration represents a significant moment in Glasgow's contemporary art scene, bringing together two distinct artistic voices in a celebration of both traditional and modern creative expression.
