Artist Database

Kenneth Baker was born in Cape Town in 1921. His father, a house painter, recognized and encouraged his son's artistic talent. Before pursuing a career as a full-time artist, Baker became a sign writer at the Cape Town Docks. This setting would serve as subject matter for some of Baker’s paintings, including fishermen and harbour scenes. His oeuvre additionally included landscapes, still lifes, and depictions of daily life for many in the Cape Flats, Bo-Kaap, and District Six. He had an expressive and compassionate style and was also greatly influenced by Gregoire Boonzaier, who later became a mentor and taught him impressionist colour theory. Baker participated in many group shows and held thirteen solo exhibitions. He was a prolific artist who often sold his works for low prices; partly as a necessity to support his family and partly to make his art more accessible to the general public.