William Gear (1915-1997) is best known for his work with the CoBrA Group with whom he exhibited in Amsterdam and Copenhagen in 1949. However, beyond this association Gear had a long and successful career in his own right. This book charts his remarkable artistic journey. Born in Fife, Scotland, William Gear studied at Edinburgh College of Art. His artistic apprenticeship was distinguished; it featured a travelling scholarship which included a period of study with Fernand Leger in Paris. After serving in World War II, Gear pursued his career in earnest and was soon exhibiting his work within the international arena. Alongside his connections with Cobra, Gear enjoyed domestic accolades which included the Festival of Britain Purchase Prize (1951), membership of the London Group (1952) and the title of Senior Royal Academician (1995). These achievements, alongside many other highlights, are discussed in John McEwen's overview of Gear's career.