The re-known artist/teacher and fellow Salmagundi Club member, William Merritt Chase, once said, “Painting is the Most Magnificent Profession.” Though he was born at the middle of the 1800s and died in 1916, he and I are kindred spirits in this belief. There is nothing more enjoyable than observing a splendid sunset and recording it on canvas, or capturing an unusual vase or figurine from an antique shop and planning a new composition involving the new found objects.
William Merritt Chase was prolific and versatile, as he painted in all media including oil, pastel, watercolor, and even was skilled at etching. Perhaps he is most famous for his glorious portraits. Many important men and women were eager for him to portray their persona on canvas. In addition, he painted his lovely wife, Alice, and all six of their children many times over, creating tranquil scenes of family life in their several homes.
Chase went on to form a stellar career in not only painting, but also teaching many students, fortunate to be included in his full-to-capacity classes. Landscapes, portraits, still life, seascapes, genre scenes, interiors filled with beautifully dressed children and grownups, beach scenes with bathers and strollers carrying umbrellas were some of his many artistic venues.
You can understand what an honor it is to be deemed a fellow Salmagundi Club member when considering the accomplishments of such a person who was revered in his field.
William Merritt Chases’s “Camencita” at the Met is one of my favorite paintings. I enjoyed reading what you said about him and agree with you in your opinion of him.
Hello Barbara, Yes, indeed, Chase is an all time favorite. “Camencita” is beautiful. Glad you enjoyed the recap – story of his genius. Best, Margret