Peleg Franklin Brownell Paintings

Peleg Franklin Brownell was a Canadian artist born on July 17, 1857, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, USA. Although born in the United States, Brownell moved to Canada and became a key figure in the Canadian art scene. He is best known for his landscapes and city scenes, which often captured the essence of Canadian life and the beauty of the Canadian landscape.

Brownell received his early education in the United States before moving to Ottawa, Canada. He began his artistic training at the Ottawa Art Association and later went to Paris to study at the prestigious Académie Julian under the tutelage of William-Adolphe Bouguereau and Tony Robert-Fleury. His time in Europe allowed him to absorb the influences of French Impressionism, which would later be reflected in his use of light and color.

Upon returning to Canada, Brownell became an influential member of the Ottawa Art Association and played a pivotal role in the development of the art community in the city. He was a founding member of the Canadian Art Club, which aimed to promote high standards in Canadian art. Throughout his career, Brownell exhibited his work frequently, participating in shows at the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts, the Ontario Society of Artists, and the Art Association of Montreal.

Brownell’s artwork often depicted the Canadian landscape, from the bustling streets of Ottawa to the serene countryside of Quebec. He was adept at capturing the changing seasons, and his paintings often reflected a sense of peace and tranquility. His style evolved over the years, incorporating broader brushstrokes and a more vivid palette as he matured artistically.

Later in life, Brownell also contributed to the arts through teaching. He served as the principal of the Ottawa Art School, where he mentored a generation of young Canadian artists. His work as an educator and his significant contributions to Canadian art were recognized in his time, and he continued to paint and teach until his death on May 5, 1946, in Ottawa.

Brownell’s legacy is preserved in the collections of various Canadian institutions, including the National Gallery of Canada, and his work continues to be appreciated for its historical significance and artistic merit. As an artist who bridged the gap between traditional and impressionistic styles, Peleg Franklin Brownell remains an important figure in the narrative of Canadian art history.