Born in Leeds Bowen studied art with Gilbert Foster, he also studied printmaking and pottery design. He did paint on the continent but is best known for his views of Yorkshire, the county in which he was born and lived. He established his own school of painting in Leeds. Was president of the RCamA for a number of years exhibiting with it prolifically. Also exhibited at the Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool and RA and ROI. Several Northern galleris hold his work including, Leeds, Rotheram and Rochdale.