George Ernest Colby was an American artist, primarily known for his contributions as a watercolorist and for his landscape paintings. Born on November 25, 1885, in Henniker, New Hampshire, Colby developed an interest in the arts at a young age. He went on to study at the Massachusetts Normal Art School in Boston and later at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, where he honed his skills and developed his personal style.
Colby's work was largely influenced by the American Impressionist movement, and he became well-regarded for his ability to capture the nuances of natural light and atmosphere in his landscapes. He was an active member of the Boston art community and participated in numerous exhibitions, including shows at the Boston Art Club and the Copley Society of Art.
During his career, Colby traveled extensively, drawing inspiration from various landscapes across the United States. He was particularly fond of the New England countryside, and many of his works feature scenes from Vermont, Maine, and his home state of New Hampshire. His paintings are characterized by a vibrant color palette and a loose, expressive brushwork that effectively conveys the moods and seasons of the places he depicted.
Aside from his paintings, Colby also contributed to the art world through teaching. He shared his knowledge and passion with students at various institutions, imparting the techniques of watercolor painting to a new generation of artists. Despite not achieving the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries, Colby's work has been appreciated for its technical skill and emotive quality, and it continues to be sought after by collectors of American Impressionism and watercolor art.
George Ernest Colby passed away on February 22, 1947. Today, his legacy endures through his artworks, which continue to be exhibited and celebrated for their contribution to early 20th-century American art. His paintings can be found in private collections and occasionally on display in art galleries and museums that feature American Impressionist works.