Fernand Harvey Lungren Paintings

Fernand Harvey Lungren was an American painter known for his versatility in subject matter and distinctive style, which often incorporated elements of Impressionism and Tonalism. Born on December 18, 1857, in Hagerstown, Maryland, Lungren's family moved to Toledo, Ohio, where he grew up. His artistic talent became evident at an early age, and by the age of 16, he was already receiving recognition for his work.

Lungren's education in art began at the Maryland Institute in Baltimore. He later moved to Europe to further his studies, spending time in Paris at the Académie Julian, where he was influenced by contemporary French art movements. During this time, he was exposed to the work of Impressionist masters, which had a lasting impact on his approach to light and color.

After returning to the United States, Lungren settled in New York, where he worked as an illustrator for popular magazines such as 'Scribner’s' and 'Century'. His illustrations were notable for their vivid character and narrative quality. Lungren also spent time in the American Southwest, particularly in Santa Fe, New Mexico, which profoundly influenced his subject matter. He became fascinated with the culture and landscapes of the region, which would become recurring themes in his paintings.

Lungren's work is characterized by his adept use of color and light to capture mood and atmosphere. He painted a wide range of subjects, including urban scenes of New York City, the deserts of the Southwest, and portraits. His style evolved over the years, but he consistently demonstrated a strong command of his medium, whether working in oil, watercolor, or pastel.

In addition to painting, Lungren was an active member of the art community. He was a member of various art organizations and exhibited his work widely. His paintings were shown at the Paris Salon, the National Academy of Design, and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, among other prestigious institutions.

Fernand Harvey Lungren's legacy as an artist is marked by the depth and diversity of his work. His paintings are held in several important collections, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. He continued to paint and be active in the art world until his death on November 20, 1932, in Santa Barbara, California. Lungren's contributions to American art are still recognized today, and his works continue to be appreciated for their unique blend of realism and atmospheric impressionism.