Charles was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, the only son of an artist and metal craftsman.
His artistic talent was noted at an early age. Although he is mainly self taught, Charles did study for a short time at the Birmingham College of Art where he was able to sell much of his work as a student.
He has been painting since the early 60s and in the mid 80s he acquired a passion for the Orient and its cultures. In 1991 his first one-man show was staged at London's Mall Galleries and was unique in featuring Japan's national sport, Sumo.
In more recent times he has worked closely the Royal Ballet, working extensively with principal dancers including Miyako Yoshida and Darcey Bussell.
In the year 2000 this dedication to the stage and performance achieved Charles a finalist place in the prestigious Garrick Milne Prize.
See below for Limited Edition Prints by Charles Willmott