Bertha Evelyn Clausen Jaques Paintings

Bertha Evelyn Clausen Jaques, born in Covington, Ohio, on December 24, 1863, was an influential American artist known for her etchings and her role in promoting fine prints as a serious art form. She moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in her early childhood and later trained as a nurse. It wasn't until her marriage to Dr. William E. Jaques in 1888 and subsequent move to Chicago that she began to pursue art in earnest. She was largely self-taught, although she later studied with leading artists of her time, developing a distinctive style that would make her one of the most accomplished etchers of her generation.

Jaques's artistic career began in earnest in the late 1890s. Inspired by the natural world, she focused on botanical subjects, translating the intricate details of flowers into the medium of etching with finesse and precision. Her work was characterized by a delicate interplay of light and shadow, a testament to her meticulous observation and technical skill. Jaques's etchings were exhibited widely during her lifetime, earning her recognition and respect among her contemporaries.

In addition to her work as an artist, Jaques played a pivotal role in the Chicago arts community. Alongside her husband, she co-founded the Chicago Society of Etchers in 1910, serving as its secretary for many years. The society's establishment helped elevate the status of etching as a fine art and provided a platform for printmakers to exhibit their work. Jaques's efforts in organizing annual exhibitions and promoting the work of fellow artists were instrumental in the growth of the printmaking movement in the United States.

Bertha Jaques was not just an artist but also an advocate for the arts. She wrote articles, gave lectures, and organized events that fostered a greater appreciation for prints and their creators. Her dedication to the craft extended beyond her own work, making her a central figure in the American etching revival of the early 20th century.

Jaques continued to create and exhibit her work into the latter part of her life, leaving behind a legacy of over 400 etchings. Her contributions to art were recognized with numerous awards and honors, and her prints are held in the collections of major museums across the United States. Bertha Evelyn Clausen Jaques passed away on September 30, 1941, in Chicago, leaving a profound impact on the art world and paving the way for future generations of printmakers.