George Beven (born 1929) is a Sri Lankan artist. Born in Negombo to a Eurasian family descending from 18th Century British soldiers, Beven studied at Newstead College and Maris Stella College in Negombo. While at Newstead, one of his teachers encouraged him to paint and sent his entries to art competitions in England. In the late 1940s, Beven sent a couple of line drawings to the Ceylon Observer, which led to him being offered a position as an illustrator and fashion designer. While working, Beven took night classes at Heywood Art College where he met famed artist David Paynter from whom he learnt to draw the human figure. In 1955 he moved to St. Martin’s School of Art in London to learn fashion drawing and illustration.

Upon completion of his education, Beven worked at a travel agency. When he lost his job, Beven decided to become a full-time artist at the age of 55. A friend hung his paintings in a London restaurant and people bought them off the walls and requests followed including a portrait of Princess Margaret. His unique style, strongly influenced by David Paynter, brings out the power and expressions of the human figure and face. One of Sri Lanka’s most respected artists, Beven divides his time between England and Negombo.