Willard L. Metcalf - Pioneer

Willard L. Metcalf is another newly discovered artist. Although this artist is not well known, he has been credited with being a pioneer of Impressionism.  He specialized in landscape painting.  Metcalf worked with oils, pastels and watercolors.

Metcalf was born in Lowell, Massachusetts in 1858.  He studied art in Boston and spent a great deal of time working with landscapes.   He studied in France and was influenced by Monet.  While in France, Metcalf learned to paint en plein air. After returning to America, Willard Metcalf he began merging his old with his new influences.  This resulted in what some believe is the most important framework for American Impressionism.

Metcalf’s New England landscapes are considered to be his best work.  Although I admire many of his New England landscapes, my favorite painting by Metcalf is Indian Summer, Vermont.  This oil on canvas was created in 1922 and resides at the Dallas Museum of Art.    I love the brilliant use of color and brushwork.

Willard L. Metcalf’s paintings are often exhibited in galleries. Like many great artist, his work seems to be timeless.

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