Frank Applegate Paintings

Frank Applegate was an American artist known for his contributions to the art and culture of New Mexico, and in particular for being one of the key figures in the revival of the traditional Spanish colonial art forms in the region. Born in Illinois in 1881, Applegate spent his early years in the Midwest before eventually moving to the Southwest, which would become the primary source of inspiration for his work.

Initially, Applegate was trained as a potter, but his artistic pursuits were broad, including painting, drawing, and writing. He was deeply influenced by the unique cultural heritage and the landscapes of New Mexico. After serving in World War I, he settled in Santa Fe in 1921 and quickly immersed himself in the local culture.

Applegate was a prominent member of the Santa Fe art community and was one of the founding members of the Spanish Colonial Arts Society in 1925. His work with the Society aimed to preserve and promote the traditional arts of the region, which were at risk of disappearing. He was instrumental in establishing the Spanish Market in Santa Fe, which gave local artisans a venue to sell their traditional Spanish colonial art and helped to foster a revival of these art forms.

In addition to his work with the Spanish Colonial Arts Society, Applegate was also a member of the Cinco Pintores, the first group of modernist painters in Santa Fe. Though not as well known as some of his contemporaries, his contributions to the cultural preservation and artistic innovation of the region were significant. Frank Applegate passed away in 1931, leaving behind a legacy that had a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of New Mexico.