Lenkiewicz Reconsidered

“The majority of books present with a title that requires no further explanation. Perhaps, though, with this particular title, the word ‘reconsidered’ might be expected to provoke questions – not the least of these being, ‘Why would the work of the painter, Robert Lenkiewicz, acquire a standing wherein it needed to be reconsidered?’”

This is the question the author poses in his introduction to Lenkiewicz Reconsidered. Keith Nichols first met with Robert Lenkiewicz in 1996. They became friends and would meet every few weeks until Robert’s death in 2002. It became established between them that Keith would write a book recalling some of their conversations and taking stock of Robert’s life, work and achievements. The intention was that the project would be completed while he was alive and working.

However, the book Robert Lenkiewicz –The Artist and the Man, was published in 2005 since few expected such an early death.

Being a clinical psychologist by profession Keith Nichols put some emphasis on attempting to understand Robert’s approach to life and painting from a psychological viewpoint. Now the emphasis has changed to that of assessing Robert’s achievements.

By inviting critics and fellow artists to express their views on this controversial figure, many who knew Robert well or were his contemporaries, the author provides us with a new and valuable perspective on his life and work.

Keith Nichols is a clinical psychologist and academic. While his book is based on a long term friendship with the artist, the author’s professional interests provide the basis on which this book has been written. Born and educated in Essex, Keith attended Leeds University 1962–1968, obtaining a Degree in psychology followed by post graduate training as a clinical psychologist. Appointed lecturer in clinical psychology at the University of Exeter in September 1968 he was involved in the creation of clinical psychology training at the University. He also developed courses related to workplace stress.