Thomas Schofield Handforth Paintings

Thomas Schofield Handforth was an American artist and illustrator, born on September 19, 1897, in Tacoma, Washington. He is best remembered for his work as a printmaker, illustrator, and author, particularly in the field of children's books. Handforth's artistic journey began early in life, leading him to study at the University of Washington before transferring to the California School of Fine Arts (now known as the San Francisco Art Institute) and later attending the Art Students League of New York. His education was expansive and included a significant period in Paris at the Académie Julian, where he honed his skills and was influenced by the vibrant artistic community in Europe during the early 20th century.

Handforth's career was significantly shaped by his travels. After serving in World War I, he ventured extensively through Europe, North Africa, and Asia, drawing inspiration from the people, landscapes, and cultures he encountered. These experiences deeply influenced his artistic style, which is characterized by a blend of realism and expressive line work, often focusing on scenes of daily life and portraits. His time in China, in particular, had a profound impact on his work. He lived there for several years in the 1930s, immersing himself in the culture and becoming proficient in Chinese language and calligraphy. This period resulted in one of his most famous works, the children's book 'Mai Li', which won the Caldecott Medal in 1939 for its illustrations. 'Mai Li' was groundbreaking in its portrayal of Chinese culture to American children, offering a window into a world that was largely unfamiliar to his audience at the time.

Throughout his career, Handforth exhibited widely and received numerous accolades for his work, including the aforementioned Caldecott Medal. Despite his success, he remained a somewhat enigmatic figure, dedicated to his craft and the exploration of cultures different from his own. His contributions to art and children's literature are remembered for their cultural sensitivity, depth of expression, and technical mastery. Thomas Schofield Handforth passed away on February 6, 1948, in San Francisco, California, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and educate on the importance of cultural appreciation and artistic exploration.