Percy Gray was an American painter known for his watercolor landscapes and scenes of Northern California. Born on October 3, 1869, in San Francisco, Gray was the son of a banker and showed an early interest in art. He studied at the San Francisco School of Design under Emil Carlsen, a prominent painter who significantly influenced his early work.
Gray's career began as a newspaper illustrator, working for the San Francisco Call and later the Examiner. His work in illustration honed his skills in quickly capturing scenes and details, which later contributed to the spontaneous quality of his watercolor landscapes.
In 1906, after the devastating San Francisco earthquake, Gray moved to New York City. There, he continued to work as an illustrator but also devoted more time to his watercolor painting. He found success and recognition, becoming a member of the National Academy of Design and the American Watercolor Society.
Eventually, Gray returned to California, settling in Monterey in 1918. The beauty of the California landscape, with its majestic trees, rolling hills, and coastal scenes, became the primary subject of his art. Gray developed a distinctive style characterized by a muted palette and a misty, atmospheric quality that captured the unique light and mood of the West Coast. His works often portrayed eucalyptus trees, a subject for which he is particularly well-remembered.
During his lifetime, Percy Gray was considered a leading California Impressionist, alongside his contemporaries such as Guy Rose and William Wendt. He enjoyed a successful career, exhibiting his work in various venues and earning the respect of collectors and critics alike.
Gray lived in Monterey until his death on October 10, 1952. Today, his paintings are held in many public and private collections and continue to be appreciated for their serene beauty and technical skill. Gray's contribution to early Californian art is significant, and his work remains an important part of the state's cultural heritage.
