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Ernest Lawson

1873 - 1939

Quick Facts

  • Copyright status: Public domain
  • Works on APS: 184
  • Gift suitability: seasonal gift
  • Lifespan: 66 years
  • Topics explored:
    • winter
    • rivers
    • landscape
    • usa
    • impressionism
  • Born: 1873, Halifax, Canada
  • Room fit: living room
  • Vibe: serene

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.
  • city suburbs, one of lawson's notable works, is now part of the phillips collection in washington, d.c., showcasing his unique blend of impressionism and realism. (view at ArtsDot)
  • another piece, approaching storm, also in the phillips collection, demonstrates lawson's mastery of capturing the essence of american landscapes. (view at ArtsDot)
  • for more on ernest lawson and his contributions to american impressionism, visit his page on ArtsDot.

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

How is Ernest Lawson's career divided into periods?

A chronological account of Ernest Lawson's work is available on the artist's Chronicle page, where the artworks pass in order of creation, chapter by chapter.

Where are Ernest Lawson's artworks mapped by subject?

The Subject Atlas page maps Ernest Lawson's artworks by subject.

How do I find works by Ernest Lawson on a specific theme?

The By Keywords page of Ernest Lawson groups the artist's artworks by their keywords.

What are the birthplace and birth year of Ernest Lawson?

Ernest Lawson was born in Halifax in 1873.

Where can I see Ernest Lawson's artworks arranged by atmosphere?

The Mood Room of Ernest Lawson is a page that arranges the artist's artworks by mood.

What are the birth city and country of Ernest Lawson?

Ernest Lawson was born in Halifax, in Canada.

Where is Ernest Lawson from?

Ernest Lawson was born in Canada.

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?