Early Life and Training
Walter Richard Sickert, a German-born British painter, was born on May 31, 1860, in Munich, Kingdom of Bavaria. His family settled in England in 1868, following the German annexation of Schleswig-Holstein. Sickert's early education took place at University College School and King's College School, where he studied until the age of 18.
Artistic Development
Sickert's artistic journey began with a brief stint as an actor, followed by his enrollment in the Slade School in 1881. He later became a pupil of James Abbott McNeill Whistler, who significantly influenced his work. Sickert's earliest paintings were small tonal studies painted alla prima from nature after Whistler's example.
Notable Works and Controversy
Sickert's first major works, dating from the late 1880s, portrayed scenes in London music halls. One of his notable paintings,
Katie Lawrence at Gatti's, sparked controversy due to its depiction of a well-known music hall singer, deemed "ugly and vulgar" by critics.
Association with the Camden Town Group
Sickert was an important influence on distinctively British styles of avant-garde art in the 20th century. He joined the New English Art Club in 1888, a group of French-influenced realist artists, and later became a member of the Camden Town Group.
Legacy
Sickert's work can be found in various museums, including
The Museum Kunstsalon Franke Schenk, which features works from the 16th to the 20th centuries. His legacy extends beyond his own art, influencing British styles of avant-garde art in the mid and late 20th century.
Key Dates:
- May 31, 1860: Born in Munich, Kingdom of Bavaria
- 1888: Joined the New English Art Club
- 1903-04: Developed a distinctive approach to multiple-figure tableaux during his last painting trip to Venice
Conclusion
Walter Richard Sickert's pioneering work in British avant-garde art has left an indelible mark on the art world. His legacy continues to inspire and influence artists, making him a
crucial figure in the history of modern art.