Prince George has received support from his art teacher, Barry Whitehouse, who defended his kingfisher drawing amid online backlash. Prince William‘s son faced criticism over a drawing he reportedly completed when he was 12 years old.
Art teacher Barry Whitehouse defends Prince George’s kingfisher drawing amid online backlash
In the latest issue of Country Life, Prince William included a drawing by Prince George. The magazine dedicated a full page to the pencil drawing of a bird, which George reportedly created when he was 12. Following the issue’s publication, some online critics questioned the quality of his artwork.
Artist Matt Fussell, founder of the tutorial platform The Virtual Instructor, told USA Today that George may have used online tutorial courses, although he could not confirm this. He added, “The similarities are certainly exciting to see.”
Whitehouse has since attracted attention after defending George’s artwork in an Instagram video. In the caption, he wrote, “Here’s an art teacher’s take on Prince George’s artwork, as shared in Country Life Magazine, where his father, Prince William, was guest editor for an issue.”
Whitehouse said in the video, “This is really quite good; it does show a lot of talent. What has surprised me is the amount of backlash that this child’s artwork has seen online from adult artists.”
He also criticized those questioning George’s talent, arguing that having members of the royal family interested in art was a positive development. He added that their involvement could bring “support from quite a top level.” Whitehouse also noted that King Charles is a skilled painter.
George has shown an interest in art from a young age. In 2022, the official account of the Prince and Princess of Wales shared his watercolour painting of a reindeer, accompanied by the caption, “Happy Christmas! [paint emoji] by George.” The painting was created when he was nine years old (via HELLO! Magazine).
Whitehouse’s defense highlights the importance of encouraging young artists, while George’s latest drawing offers another glimpse into his interest in art.
