David Farquharson was a Scottish landscape painter born on May 13, 1839, in Blairgowrie, Perthshire, Scotland. Initially trained as a civil engineer, he shifted his focus to art and became an apprentice to a house painter, where he learned the basics of painting. Farquharson's love for the Scottish landscape was evident in his work, which often depicted the rural Highlands, characterized by a naturalistic style and an emphasis on atmospheric effects and the changing seasons.
He moved to Edinburgh in the early 1860s to pursue his art career and began exhibiting his work at the Royal Scottish Academy. His talent was recognized early on, and he became an associate of the Academy in 1873. Farquharson's work gained popularity, and he exhibited at other institutions, including the Royal Academy in London.
In 1875, Farquharson moved to London, where he continued to develop his craft. He became known for his ability to capture the delicate nuances of light and color in his landscapes, earning him the nickname 'the Scottish Corot' in reference to the French landscape artist Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot.
Throughout his career, Farquharson traveled extensively, seeking inspiration beyond Scotland. He visited France and Italy, where he was influenced by the Barbizon school, a group of artists known for their realistic and plein-air rural scenes. Despite these influences, Farquharson remained true to his Scottish roots, and his paintings continued to celebrate the unique beauty of the Scottish countryside.
David Farquharson became a full member of the Royal Scottish Academy in 1886. His work was widely exhibited and collected during his lifetime, and he enjoyed considerable success. Farquharson passed away on April 15, 1907, in London, leaving behind a significant body of work that is still appreciated for its contribution to Scottish art and its portrayal of the natural landscape.
