His first one man show was at the Raille Gallery Islington in 1961 followed by years of many successful shows at some of the world's top galleries in the USA, Europe and the UK.

At this time, he also worked as an art Director in Advertising and spent many years illustrating for top publishing houses throughout the world including Paladin where he designed and painted the famous book jacket for Germaine Greer's book, "Female Eunuch". Among some of his other most notable illustrations John also designed the Book Jacket for Jaws.

Among some of the worlds leading surrealist painters, John takes much of his inspiration from Salvador Dali as well as Rene Magritte.

Society of Illustrators New York Award
Royal Society of Arts Award ­ The Female Eunuch

It is with regret that we announce the death of John Holmes on Wednesday 17th August 2011 in Norfolk.