Guy Pene Du Bois Paintings

Guy Pène du Bois was an American painter, critic, and educator known for his ironic and well-delineated observations of American society during the early 20th century. Born on January 4, 1884, in Brooklyn, New York, he was the son of a French journalist and grew up in an environment that fostered his interest in the arts.

Du Bois studied at the New York School of Art under William Merritt Chase and later with Robert Henri, becoming part of a group of artists known as the Ashcan School. This group was known for their realistic portrayals of urban life in New York City. Despite this influence, du Bois developed his own distinctive style that leaned towards satire, focusing on the foibles of the upper class and the complexities of social hierarchies.

He served as a correspondent in France for the New York American during World War I, and upon returning to the United States, he became a prominent critic, writing for publications such as the New York Post and The Arts magazine. Du Bois was an influential figure in the art world, advocating for a balance between modernist innovation and traditional craftsmanship.

His paintings often feature scenes of social gatherings, restaurants, theaters, and other venues of leisure, characterized by elongated figures and an emphasis on the psychological dynamics between individuals. His work captures the essence of the Roaring Twenties and the Jazz Age, with a subtle critique of the era's materialism and superficiality.

Throughout his career, Guy Pène du Bois taught at various institutions, including the Art Students League of New York. He mentored many young artists and helped shape American art education during his time.

Du Bois' work has been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums, including the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. His legacy includes a sharp eye for social commentary through the medium of painting, and his art remains an important record of American culture during the early 20th century.

Guy Pène du Bois passed away on July 18, 1958, in Boston, Massachusetts. His contributions to art and criticism have solidified his place in the history of American art.