Abstract: Method and apparatus for image processing in which an image array is convolved with a kernel. The convolution is carried out with a decomposed form of the kernel that is a linear combination of one or more terms, at least one term being the convolutional product of two or more primitive kernels. Each primitive kernel has a center element, and even or odd parity with respect to reflection about the center element along each of the dimensions of the image array. One apparatus for carrying out the invention comprises a parallel processor associated with at least one dimension of the image array. The parallel processor receives parallel input data comprising a one-dimensional input portion of the image array extending along such dimension, and convolves the input data with the decomposed form of the kernel.