Emily Sartain Paintings

Emily Sartain was an American artist, engraver, and educator, born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on June 17, 1841. She came from a family deeply involved in the arts; her father, John Sartain, was a notable engraver and publisher, and her siblings also pursued artistic endeavors. Emily initially trained under her father's guidance before seeking formal education in the arts, which was somewhat unconventional for a woman at the time.

Sartain's talent in engraving, a process that involves etching a design onto a hard surface, was recognized early in her career. She became one of the few women in the 19th century to achieve professional success in this field. Her works included both original compositions and reproductions of paintings by other artists, which helped disseminate popular artworks to a broader audience.

In the 1870s, Emily Sartain studied in Paris, which was a significant achievement for a woman artist of her era. She attended the famous Académie Julian, where she was able to refine her skills among other emerging artists of the time. Sartain's experiences in Paris also exposed her to new artistic movements and techniques, which she would later incorporate into her work and teaching.

Upon returning to the United States, Sartain became deeply involved in art education. In 1886, she was appointed as the principal of the Philadelphia School of Design for Women (now Moore College of Art & Design), a position she held until 1920. Under her leadership, the school expanded its curriculum and gained a reputation for its rigorous and progressive educational program. She was a strong advocate for women's education and professional development in the arts, promoting the idea that women could have successful careers as artists.

Sartain's impact on the art world extended beyond her personal artistic achievements and her role as an educator. She was also involved in various art organizations and exhibitions, including the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition of 1876. She was a proponent of the Arts and Crafts movement and contributed to the development of American art during a period of significant change and growth.

Emily Sartain passed away on March 17, 1927, leaving behind a legacy as a prominent figure in the American art scene and as a pioneering educator who helped pave the way for future generations of women artists.