Printmaker, painter and teacher, born in east London, brought up in Eastbourne, Sussex, which remained his home. Archer’s chemist father passed on two gifts: knowledge to mix and grind his own pigments, and a profound faith in the Bible, which he read to his family each morning. Studied at Eastbourne School of Art in 1928–32, Royal College of Art, 1932–8, that year winning the Prix de Rome. Was only able to study at British School in Rome for a year due to the war. Later taught at Eastbourne School of Art and became head of fine art at Kingston College of Art. Despite teaching he was a prolific artist. His work, sometimes on themes such as music and musicians, was influenced by his ability as a draughtsman. The earlier work tends to be more architectural in construction, but later it became more personal, and looser.