A Life of Diverse Pursuits
James Fairman was a Scottish-born American landscape painter, art teacher, art critic, and military officer. Born in Glasgow, United Kingdom, he immigrated to the United States with his mother after the early death of his father, Laurenz Fehrman. After showing an aptitude for drawing, he attended evening classes at the National Academy of Design and later worked as an apprentice at Harper & Brothers publishing in Manhattan.
His life was marked by significant involvement in various public spheres. He was active in the Abolitionist movement and was elected to a school board committee in New York. During the Civil War, he served as a military officer, holding the rank of Colonel in the 96th New York Volunteer Infantry before resigning in September 1862.
Artistic Travels and Later Years
Fairman's artistic journey took him across the globe. After participating in exhibits at the National Academy and the American Watercolor Society, he traveled through Europe, spending time in Palestine, Düsseldorf, Paris, and London. He also spent time in Chicago and taught in Olivet, Michigan, before returning to New York.
His body of work includes:
Questions & Answers
Can I browse James Fairman's works by mood?
The Mood Room of James Fairman is a page that arranges the artist's artworks by mood.
In which historical period did James Fairman work?
James Fairman worked in the 19th-Century period. The period situates the artist's activity in history.
How can I follow James Fairman's work year by year?
James Fairman's artworks can be seen in chronological order on the artist's Artwork Timeline page.
How many artworks by James Fairman are available to browse?
You can browse 3 artworks by James Fairman on the All Artworks page.
