The Life and Art of M. Jean McLane
M. Jean McLane, also known as Jean Johansen, was an American portraitist born in Chicago, United States. Her artistic journey began at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where she studied under John Vanderpoel. Her formal education continued in Cincinnati under Frank Duveneck and in New York City under William M. Chase, supplemented by studies in Italy, Spain, and France. McLane’s career was marked by significant recognition, including being elected an associate to the National Academy of Design in 1912 and a full academician in 1926. She was also a member of the National Society of Portrait Painters and helped found the National Association of Portrait Painters in 1912.
Specializing in portraits of women and children, McLane’s work reached prestigious audiences and institutions. Her subjects included notable figures such as Elisabeth, Queen of the Belgians, Premier Hughes of Australia, and Premier Eleftherios Venizelos. Her paintings have been included in the collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum . Throughout her career, she received several accolades, such as the Lippincott Prize from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and the Hallgarten Prize from the National Academy of Design .
Notable Works and Recognition
McLane’s portfolio includes a diverse range of figurative works, many of which captured intimate moments or distinguished individuals. Some of her notable paintings include:
Her ability to capture her subjects was recognized through various awards, including a bronze medal at the St. Louis Universal Exposition and first prize from the International League in Paris. Her work was also featured in the art competition at the 1932 Summer Olympics.
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Atualizado em 15 de Outubro de 2026
