Emily Murray Paterson Paintings

Emily Murray Paterson was a Scottish painter, known primarily for her watercolor landscapes and still lifes. Born in 1855 in Edinburgh, Scotland, Paterson developed an early interest in art, which was nurtured by her family's support. Despite the societal expectations of women during her time, she pursued her passion for art and became a notable figure in the Scottish art scene.

Paterson's education in art began at the Edinburgh Ladies' Art Club, a significant institution that provided art education to women at a time when their participation in professional art institutions was limited. She furthered her studies at the Trustees’ Academy in Edinburgh, where she honed her skills and established a foundation for her future work. Paterson was known for her dedication to capturing the essence of her subjects, whether it was the rugged beauty of the Scottish landscape or the intricate details of a still life.

Throughout her career, Emily Murray Paterson exhibited her work widely, including at the Royal Scottish Academy and the Royal Glasgow Institute of the Fine Arts. Her paintings were well-received, and she gained recognition for her ability to convey the subtleties of light and texture in her watercolor paintings. Paterson was a member of several art societies, including the Scottish Society of Women Artists, where she played a significant role in advocating for the recognition and inclusion of women artists in the art world.

Despite the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field, Paterson's contributions to Scottish art were significant. She not only broke barriers for future generations of women artists but also left behind a body of work that continues to be appreciated for its beauty and technical skill. Emily Murray Paterson passed away in 1934, leaving a legacy that endures in the collections of various Scottish institutions and in the history of Scottish art.