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Ernest Lawson

1873 - 1939

Quick Facts

  • Lifespan: 66 years
  • Copyright status: Public domain
  • Died: 1939
  • Born: 1873, Halifax, Canada
  • Mediums: oil on canvas
  • Color intensity: balanced
  • Typical colors:
    • neutrals
    • earthy
  • Museums on APS:
    • High Museum of Art
    • Detroit Historical Museum
    • Columbia Museum of Art

early life and training

ernest lawson, a prominent figure in the american impressionist movement, was born on march 22, 1873, in halifax, nova scotia, canada. in 1888, he moved to the united states, settling in kansas city, and later, in 1891, he made his way to new york, where he enrolled in classes at the art students league. under the tutelage of john twachtman, lawson was introduced to impressionism, which would significantly influence his formative years.

artistic development and influences

lawson's style, characterized by a blend of impressionism and realism, was shaped by his interactions with various artists. he studied at the académie julian in paris in 1893, where he met jean-joseph benjamin-constant and jean-paul laurens. his plein air painting experiences in southern france and moret-sur-loing, where he encountered alfred sisley, an english impressionist, further enriched his artistic perspective.

the eight and notable exhibitions

in 1908, lawson joined the eight, a group of artists protesting the narrow tastes and restrictive exhibition policies of the national academy of design. this association led to a pivotal exhibition at the macbeth galleries in new york, which garnered significant media attention and sparked debate about the diversity of style and subject matter in american art.

legacy and impact

lawson's understated yet vibrant style, described by art critic james gibbons huneker as originating from a "palette of crushed jewels," has left an indelible mark on american art. his participation in the eight and his unique artistic approach have made him a notable figure in the history of impressionism. key points: * born: march 22, 1873, halifax, nova scotia, canada * died: december 18, 1939 * notable works: city suburbs, approaching storm * influences: john twachtman, jean-joseph benjamin-constant, alfred sisley * association: the eight * style: blend of impressionism and realism

Questions & Answers

In which movements did Ernest Lawson work?

Ernest Lawson's works can be browsed by movement on the artist's All Movements page.

Where can I see all artworks by Ernest Lawson?

Every work by Ernest Lawson on this website can be browsed from the artist's All Artworks page.

Is there a chronological account of Ernest Lawson?

The Chronicle of Ernest Lawson is a scroll-driven timeline that presents the artist's works in chronological order, grouped into career-period chapters.

Art Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
What artistic movement heavily influenced Ernest Lawson's style?
Question 2:
Where did Lawson initially study Impressionism?
Question 3:
Who mentored Lawson at the Art Students League?
Question 4:
Lawson was a member of which influential artist group?
Question 5:
What is Lawson described as originating from in terms of his color palette?