Arkley studied at Prahran College of Advanced Education from 1969 to 1972, where he discovered the airbrush, which he subsequently used in his paintings as he desired smooth surfaces.
The National Library of Australia explains; "This revised and updated edition explores Howard Arkley's influences and the milieu which nurtured and inspired him - from punk music and feminism to the exuberant art scene of the 1980s.
[7] Duffy & Snellgrove commissioned Melbourne writer and musician Edwina Preston to produce the first biography; Howard Arkley: Not Just A Suburban Boy was published in 2002.
The National Library of Australia describes the book; "Arkley's work has been compared to a visual equivalent of the monologues of Barry Humphries.
This concise account describes his artistic breakthroughs, his relationship with Nick Cave and The Birthday Party, and the heroin which killed him soon after his talent was recognised around the world.