Julian Rossi Ashton Paintings

Julian Rossi Ashton was a prominent English-born Australian artist and teacher, recognized for his influence on the development of Australian art in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Addlestone, Surrey, England, on January 27, 1851, Ashton came from a family with a rich artistic heritage, which included connections to the Medici family.

Ashton's artistic journey began in the 1870s when he studied at the West London School of Art and later at the National Art Training School, South Kensington. His early career saw him working as an illustrator for English magazines before immigrating to Australia in 1878, seeking new opportunities.

In Australia, Ashton quickly made his mark in the artistic community. He worked as an illustrator for various publications including 'The Sydney Mail' and 'The Bulletin'. Ashton's work as an illustrator was widely appreciated, and he became known for his landscape and portrait paintings as well. His art was characterized by a naturalistic style and a focus on capturing the unique light and atmosphere of the Australian landscape.

Ashton played a crucial role in the Sydney art scene, not just as an artist but also as a teacher. In 1890, he founded the influential Sydney Art School, which later became the Julian Ashton Art School. The school was pivotal in the training of many notable Australian artists, such as George Lambert and William Dobell.

Throughout his life, Ashton advocated for the arts and was involved in the establishment of various art societies, including the Society of Artists, Sydney, and he was instrumental in the foundation of the Art Gallery of New South Wales' Trustees. He was also a prolific writer on art matters, contributing to the discourse on Australian art and its development.

Julian Rossi Ashton's legacy is not limited to his own artworks, but also includes the impact he had on the Australian art community through his teaching and advocacy. He continued to paint and be actively involved in the art world until his death on April 27, 1942, in Sydney. His contributions to Australian art were widely recognized, and his influence persists through the ongoing operation of the Julian Ashton Art School, which continues to nurture future generations of Australian artists.