Ernest Parton was a British-American artist known for his landscape paintings. Born on May 22, 1845, in Hudson, New York, Ernest was one of the Parton family of artists, which included his more famous brother, Arthur Parton. The Parton family moved to America from England when Ernest was a child, and it was in the United States that he began his artistic career.
Ernest Parton was primarily self-taught, although he did study briefly with William Trost Richards, a prominent landscape painter of the time. He was influenced by the Hudson River School, a mid-19th century American art movement embodied by a group of landscape painters whose aesthetic vision was influenced by romanticism. The works of the Hudson River School artists are characterized by their portrayal of America's natural landscapes as a pastoral setting, where human beings and nature coexist peacefully.
Throughout his career, Ernest Parton painted serene and detailed landscapes, capturing the changing seasons and the beauty of the American and European countryside. His works often featured wooded scenes, rivers, and rural homesteads. Ernest's paintings were well-received, and he exhibited his work at various institutions, including the National Academy of Design in New York.
In the latter part of the 19th century, Ernest moved to Europe, living and working in various countries, including England and France. This European sojourn influenced his style, as he was exposed to different artistic movements and techniques. His work began to incorporate more light and a broader palette of colors, reflecting the impressionistic influence of the time.
Ernest Parton's contribution to the art world was modest compared to that of his brother, Arthur, but he nonetheless enjoyed a successful career. He was a member of several art organizations and continued to paint throughout his life. Ernest Parton passed away on June 17, 1933, in London, England. His paintings remain a testament to his talent and his dedication to capturing the essence of the landscapes he so loved.
