Customer Reviews

Frank W. Benson: American Impressionist

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I had thought that Benson was strictly a painter of Victorian era young ladies in seaside settings. This bio (by a descendent) fleshes out his various careers as a painter of oils, a teacher, a water colorist and whatever is the correct term for one who creates etchings. Also provides a good overview of the American art scene (especially "The Ten") during the transition from the 19th to the 20th century.

After purchasing and reading Ms. Bedford's companion book, The Sporting Art of Frank W. Benson, I followed Frank W. Benson: American Impressionist for years like a blood hound until a copy finally became available. It was worth the wait.

The book's large format and quality reproductions do justice to Benson's loose brushwork, sun drenched atmosphere and subjects - which include his family and friends involved in the more meditative activities of life. Ms Bedford's love and passion for Benson's work is evident in her writing style which retains a very human voice and gives very human details of Benson's life.

Benson was one of those rare artists who proved that one could be passionate about art and passionate about family; that an artist didn't have to starve or have some personal dark psychology, or empty spirituality, or insane tendencies to succeed in a time when art was being turned on its head. Benson seemed to be a very genuine person with a very genuine art that breathes with simple authenticity and wholesomeness. No wonder he was also popular as a teacher.

This is a purchase that feels more like an investment. Enjoy.

Steve Henderson, stevehendersonfineart.com