Robert Wadsworth Grafton Paintings

Robert Wadsworth Grafton was an American painter known for his portraits, murals, and Impressionist landscapes. Born on June 14, 1876, in Pulaski, New York, he displayed a keen interest in art from an early age. Grafton pursued his passion for painting by studying at the Art Institute of Chicago and later in Paris at the Académie Julian under Jean-Paul Laurens.

During his time in Europe, Grafton was exposed to a variety of artistic styles, but it was the Impressionist movement that had a lasting influence on his work. He developed a vibrant palette and a technique characterized by loose brushwork that captured the effects of light and atmosphere.

After returning to the United States, Grafton settled in Chicago, where he became an active member of the local art community. He was involved with the Chicago Society of Artists and had a significant role in the city's cultural scene. Grafton's works were exhibited at various venues, including the Art Institute of Chicago and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.

Grafton's artistic output was diverse, ranging from commissioned portraits of prominent individuals to expansive murals and intimate landscapes. One of his most notable contributions was a series of murals he painted for the Illinois Supreme Court Building in Springfield. These works displayed his skill in composition and his ability to convey complex narratives through visual art.

Despite his success, Robert Wadsworth Grafton's life was cut short when he tragically died in an automobile accident on October 29, 1936, at the age of 60. His legacy, however, continues through his artworks that are part of various public and private collections, preserving the essence of American Impressionism during the early 20th century.