Legendary mural artist behind Scarlet Lady emblem passes away
Ken White, from Swindon, who was behind Virgin Atlantic's iconic Scarlet Lady emblem, has died aged 82
Ken White, the acclaimed mural artist from Swindon who was behind Virgin Atlantic's iconic Scarlet Lady emblem, has died aged 82.
Born in Swindon in 1943, Ken’s artistic journey began after he left school at 15 and worked for GWR's railway works. He initially worked as an unskilled riveter but sought a less dangerous position, transferring to the Carriage and Wagon Department to learn signwriting.
His passion for professional painting led him to Swindon Art College in the 1960s, where he befriended fellow creatives Ray 'Gilbert' O’Sullivan and musician Rick Davies of Supertramp. Following graduation, Ken moved to London to embark on a career in commercial illustration.
Ken's career included working with Richard Branson, initially through murals for Virgin's Town House studios in London. Over 25 years, Ken left his artistic mark across Virgin offices globally, notably creating the famed Scarlet Lady mural featured on Virgin Atlantic aircraft from the airline's launch in 1984.
Additionally, his murals adorned major locations across London, including the Intercontinental Hotel on Park Lane, Madame Tussauds, the Royal Opera House, and Heathrow Airport.
Recent contributions to Swindon
In May this year, Ken revisited one of his pieces in his hometown. Artist Tim Carroll restored the Golden Lion Bridge mural in Fleming Way ahead of the official unveiling, and Ken signed the refreshed version.
Beyond commercial projects, Ken developed a series of figurative oils and prints inspired by his childhood in Swindon. His later works were a reflection of the industrial backdrop and the lives of the people of his hometown.
Ken's profound impact on both his local community and the national artistic landscape remains evident in his murals, paintings, and illustrations.
In a statement on Facebook, the family said: "It is with great sadness that we write to let you know that our dad Ken passed away peacefully in the early hours of this morning at the GWH.
"He was admitted on Thursday following a worsening of his breathing and did not respond to treatment over the next few days.
"He was with his loving family at his bedside to the end.
"Love, Laura, Asa and Joel."