Maxfield Parrish is one of my favorite artists. He was born July 25, 1870 in Philadelphia and enjoyed drawing and art when he was a child. His father was an engraver and landscape artist and his parents encouraged his talent. He was named Franklin Parrish. When he could, he adopted his paternal grandmother's maiden name Maxfield as his first name. He enjoyed a privileged childhood with an excellent education. When he was 25 he was commissioned to do his first cover for Harper's Bazaar magazine. He lived most of his life in New Hampshire. He married, had a mistress (who also modeled for him) and 4 children. 
His use of color amazes me, especially his use of cobalt blue (which is sometimes called "Parrish blue"). In 1922, at age 52, he painted "Daybreak"
This painting enjoyed immediate success. Through the 30's, 40's and 50's most every home in the United States had a Parrish print on the wall. 
In 1931, he told the Associated Press, "I'm done with girls on rocks". He wanted to paint landscapes instead. He did work for many magazines and advertisers and lived well from the royalties. 
He had such depth in his work and such fine use of color. His paintings have an almost three-dimensional quality to them. 
His work is original and he has influenced many artists. 
He continued painting until he was 90, and died at his home at age 96. It is said that he was a "charming and intelligent man".
His use of color amazes me, especially his use of cobalt blue (which is sometimes called "Parrish blue"). In 1922, at age 52, he painted "Daybreak"
This painting enjoyed immediate success. Through the 30's, 40's and 50's most every home in the United States had a Parrish print on the wall. 
In 1931, he told the Associated Press, "I'm done with girls on rocks". He wanted to paint landscapes instead. He did work for many magazines and advertisers and lived well from the royalties. 
He had such depth in his work and such fine use of color. His paintings have an almost three-dimensional quality to them. 
His work is original and he has influenced many artists. 
He continued painting until he was 90, and died at his home at age 96. It is said that he was a "charming and intelligent man". I think it is important to encourage our children in their talents. We never know if we are influencing the next Parrish! Who is one of your favorite artists?
(photos are from my favorite free online encyclopedia, Wikipedia.com and from google search).
3 comments:
Grandfather Howell had a faded, framed print of 'Daybreak' in his garage. I love the use of black and white checkered borders that Maxfield Parrish used in some children's nursery rhymes in books he illustrated. Many people have attempted to copy Parrish in that theme. One of my favorite artist is Waterhouse, with his medieval paintings. I love all of your posts Rebecca, they are all one-of-a-kind with sweet family photos, to dolls, to awesome photography, to blogging just about life.
Love,
your sister
Trese
Hello
I agree it is so important to nurture that creative spirit in our children, even if they don't show much promise. It instills a sense of accomplishment and positive energy.
Blessings
Rebecca
Hello Rebecca. Your blog is one of beauty, especially relating to your family. I am so happy you visited my blog today, as now I have found your blog and added to those I love to visit. What a treat to find the first post I saw highlighting Maxfield Parrish, one of my favorites. His works have such a magical, enlightened quality that I find mesmerizing and enchanting! Have a lovely week. ~ Angela
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