1870-1951
A Journey Through Light and Colour
WILFRID DE GLEHN
The Beloved
EARLY LIFE & EDUCATION
Wilfrid Gabriel de Glehn, born in 1870 in Sydenham, London, was a British Impressionist painter whose artistic journey began in a culturally rich environment. His father, Alexander de Glehn, was of Baltic descent, while his mother, Fanny Monad, was French. This diverse heritage played a significant role in shaping de Glehn’s artistic sensibilities.
He received his early education at Brighton College before pursuing art studies at the Royal Academy Schools in South Kensington. De Glehn further honed his skills at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, where he lived with his cousin, the artist Lucien Monod. This period of rigorous training laid the foundation for his future work, blending traditional techniques with the emerging Impressionist style.
The Coming of Night
ARTISTIC COLLABORATION
De Glehn's career took a significant turn when he was hired in 1891 by renowned artists Edwin Austin Abbey and John Singer Sargent to assist with the Boston Public Library mural project. This collaboration marked the beginning of a lifelong friendship and artistic partnership with Sargent, who greatly influenced de Glehn’s style.
The two artists often travelled together, painting en plein air across Europe, capturing the beauty of landscapes and people with their deft brushwork. These excursions not only enriched de Glehn’s artistic repertoire but also positioned him within a network of influential artists and patrons.
Fishing // c.1932
Jane Auste Autumn // 1934
PERSONAL LIFE & TRAVELS
In 1904, de Glehn married American-born artist Jane Erin Emmet, whom he met in New Rochelle, New York. The couple shared a passion for art and travel, frequently journeying across Europe, often in the company of Sargent. Their travels took them to picturesque locations such as Cornwall, Paris, and Venice, which became recurring themes in de Glehn’s work.
The couple eventually settled in Chelsea, London, but continued to travel extensively, drawing inspiration from the diverse landscapes and cultures they encountered. These experiences enriched de Glehn’s artistic vision, allowing him to capture the essence of different environments with authenticity and emotion.
A reclining nude with a subsidiary study of arm
THE IMPACT OF WW1
The outbreak of World War I brought significant changes to de Glehn’s life and work. Both he and his wife joined the staff of a British hospital for French soldiers, demonstrating their commitment to the war effort. De Glehn was later commissioned into the Royal Garrison Artillery, serving as an interpreter due to his fluency in French.
The war years were challenging, but they also provided de Glehn with new perspectives and experiences that influenced his post-war art. Despite the turmoil, he continued to paint, capturing the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring beauty of the natural world.
Roger Quilter
ARTISTIC STYLE & RECOGNITION
Wilfrid de Glehn is celebrated for his Impressionist style, characterised by a masterful use of light and shadow to create vibrant, dynamic compositions. His paintings often depict idyllic landscapes, intimate portraits, and scenes of everyday life, rendered with a sense of immediacy and emotion.
De Glehn’s ability to capture the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere earned him comparisons to both Sargent and Renoir. His work was widely exhibited, and he was elected to the Royal Academy in 1932, cementing his status as one of England’s leading Impressionists. Despite his success, de Glehn remained modest, focusing on his art rather than seeking fame.
A Light Breeze, Biot, Provence
Self-Portrait
A LASTING LEGACY
Wilfrid de Glehn’s impact on the art world extends beyond his impressive body of work. He played a crucial role in the development of British Impressionism, bridging the gap between traditional and modern art. His collaborations with Sargent and his ability to capture the beauty of diverse landscapes have left a lasting impression on the art community.
De Glehn’s paintings continue to be celebrated for their technical excellence and emotional depth, inspiring new generations of artists and art lovers. His legacy is a testament to the enduring power of art to transcend time and connect people across cultures.