Ernest Haskell was an American graphic artist, best known for his etchings, pen-and-ink drawings, and watercolors. Born in Woodstock, Connecticut, on December 30, 1876, Haskell was exposed to art at an early age due to his father's interest in photography. He initially pursued a career in law at his father's insistence, but soon recognized his passion for art and decided to follow it instead.
Haskell moved to New York City to study at the Art Students League and later went to Paris to refine his skills, studying at the Académie Julian. During his time in Europe, he became influenced by the French Impressionists and the Art Nouveau movement. Haskell's work is characterized by a combination of impressionistic lightness and a unique precision, which is particularly evident in his pen-and-ink drawings.
Upon returning to the United States, Haskell settled in Maine and began to produce works that captured the essence of the American landscape and its people. He became recognized for his remarkable ability to depict light and atmosphere in his etchings and watercolors. His illustrations and graphic works were published in various magazines, including Harper's and Scribner's, and he became well-regarded in the artistic community.
Haskell's career was tragically cut short when he died in an automobile accident on November 2, 1925, at the age of 48. Despite his early death, Haskell left behind a body of work that continued to influence American art. His attention to detail, combined with a poetic sense of composition, has earned him a lasting place in the history of American graphic arts.