Early Life and Training
William Merritt Chase, a prominent American painter, was born on November 1, 1849, in Williamsburg (now Nineveh), Indiana. His family moved to Indianapolis in 1861, where his father employed him as a salesman. Chase's early interest in art led him to study under local artists Barton S. Hays and Jacob Cox. In 1869, he traveled to New York to further his artistic training, enrolling in the National Academy of Design under Lemuel Wilmarth.
Artistic Career
Chase's talent elicited the interest of wealthy St. Louis collectors, who arranged for him to visit Europe for two years in exchange for paintings and securing European art for their collections. In Europe, he settled at the Academy of Fine Arts, Munich, studying under Alexander von Wagner and Karl von Piloty. His figurative works, painted in a loosely brushed style, gained popularity, and his first fame came with the exhibition of "Keying Up" – The Court Jester (now in the collection of the
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts) at the Boston Art Club in 1876.
Teaching and Legacy
Chase's role as a teacher was pivotal in shaping American art. He established the Chase School, which later became Parsons The New School for Design. His students included prominent artists like George Bellows, Louise Upton Brumback, Kate Freeman Clark, and Georgia O'Keeffe. Chase's influence on California art is evident in his interactions with Arthur Frank Mathews, Xavier Martinez, and Percy Gray.
Conclusion
William Merritt Chase's legacy as a painter and teacher continues to inspire artists. His contributions to American Impressionism and his role in shaping the art world are undeniable. Explore more of his artworks on
WahooArt and delve into the world of American art.