Patrick Heron CBE (30 January 1920 – 20 March 1999) was a British abstract and figurative artist, critic and writer. Heron was recognised as one of the leading painters of his generation. Influenced by Cézanne, Matisse, Braque and Bonnard, Heron made a significant contribution to the dissemination of modernist ideas of painting through his critical writing and primarily his art. Acclaimed for his abstract and vibrant explorations of colour. His large scale paintings show a mastery of composition, light and playful colour combinations.