Frank Albert Mechau Paintings

Frank Albert Mechau was an American artist, known for his dynamic depictions of the American West, horses in motion, and scenes of nature and human life, blending modernist perspectives with regionalist themes. Born on April 8, 1904, in Sopris, Colorado, Mechau's upbringing in the rugged terrains of the West deeply influenced his artistic vision. He pursued his passion for art through education at the Art Institute of Chicago and later at the Art Students League in New York. His talent and vision were further honed during his time in Europe, particularly in France, where he absorbed the influences of the European modernists.

Mechau's work is characterized by its vibrant energy and a unique synthesis of modernist abstraction with the narratives and landscapes of the American West. His paintings often depicted horses, cowboys, and rural landscapes, capturing the spirit and dynamism of the West with a modernist flair. He was not only a painter but also worked in murals, receiving commissions under the Public Works of Art Project and the Section of Painting and Sculpture, which were New Deal programs intended to fund public art during the Great Depression. His murals are notable for their expansive scenes filled with movement and color, and can be found in public buildings across the United States.

In addition to his painting and mural work, Mechau was a dedicated educator, teaching at institutions such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. He was deeply invested in the development of young artists and the promotion of art as a vital component of public life and education. Unfortunately, Mechau's career was cut short when he died in a car accident on March 18, 1946, at the age of 41. Despite his early death, Mechau left behind a significant legacy through his contributions to American art, particularly in his ability to capture the essence of the American West with a modernist sensibility. His work continues to be celebrated for its unique blend of subject matter, technique, and perspective.