Charles Ethan Porter
Charles Porter, a talented painter best known for his detailed and color-rich still-life artworks, was born in 1847 to a free African American family in Hartford, Connecticut. From a young age, he loved drawing, inspired by his mother's garden and the natural beauty of Connecticut's fields and woods. To follow his passion for art, he saved money from various small jobs to afford art school. In 1869, just after the Civil War, Porter became the first African American to attend the National Academy in New York.
By 1878, Porter had set up his own studio in Hartford, Connecticut. His success there allowed him to fund a trip to Paris in 1881. While in France, he studied at the prestigious French National Academy for Decorative Arts and Académie Julian.
Porter returned to Connecticut in 1883, where he produced some of his finest work, showcasing both technical excellence and sophisticated composition. As Impressionism gained popularity, however, his precise and academic style began to appear outdated. Despite changing trends, he remained devoted to still-life painting. Unfortunately, Porter's popularity began to wane due to a national economic downturn and persistent racism. Despite a well-publicized exhibition and auction in Hartford to raise funds, the turnout was low and sales were slow.
After 1910, Porter's work and health declined, likely affected by racism, poverty, and illness. He passed away in 1923 from nephritis and was buried in Grove Hill Cemetery in Rockville. His life and work, as suggested by biographer Hildegard Cummings, were significantly impacted by the societal challenges he faced.
With this painting today, we of course celebrate Black History Month.
P.S. If you love flowers, why not to have them as postcards? Check out our Flowers in Art - 50 Postcard Set. :)
P.P.S. Did you know different flowers symbolize different things in art? Learn about the meaning of flowers in some of the most famous masterpieces.