Hannah Clarke Preston Macgoun, often known as Hannah Macgoun, was a Scottish artist born in 1864 in Edinburgh. Her work primarily includes watercolor paintings, and she is recognized for her floral pieces, landscapes, and occasional portraiture. Macgoun studied art at the Trustees’ Academy in Edinburgh under the guidance of prominent artists such as William McTaggart, who was known for his influence on the Scottish art scene, particularly in landscape painting.
Macgoun's artistry developed during a period in which the role of women in the arts was beginning to gain recognition, albeit still constrained by societal expectations. She was a contemporary of the Glasgow Girls, a group of female artists active at the end of the 19th century and early 20th century, although she was not directly associated with them. Macgoun exhibited her work at the Royal Scottish Academy, the Royal Glasgow Institute of the Fine Arts, and the Society of Women Artists, among other institutions, showcasing her ability to capture the delicate intricacies of flowers and the serene beauty of landscapes.
Throughout her career, Macgoun remained active in the Scottish art community and participated in various exhibitions. Despite the challenges faced by women artists at the time, her work was well-received and continues to be appreciated for its contribution to Scottish art history.
Hannah Clarke Preston Macgoun passed away in 1913. While she may not be as widely known as some of her contemporaries, Macgoun's art represents the broader movement of female artists gaining prominence during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Her legacy is preserved in the collections of those who appreciated her delicate watercolors and the portrayal of natural beauty in her compositions.