Alfred Mitchell Original Vintage San Diego Mountains Southern California Plein Air Post Impressionist Landscape Oil Painting
Original, vintage southern California Plein Air post-impressionism landscape oil painting of a small barn/house near the San Diego Mountains, by American "Dean of San Diego" artist, Alfred Richard Mitchell, (1888-1972).
Alfred R. Mitchell (1888-1972) was an esteemed American landscape painter and a prominent figure in the early California Impressionist movement. Born on June 18, 1888, in York, Pennsylvania, Mitchell's artistic journey led him to become known as the "Dean of San Diego County artists."
After relocating to San Diego, California in 1908, Mitchell had the opportunity to study under the renowned painter Maurice Braun in 1915. His talent was recognized when he won a silver medal at the 1915 Panama–California Exposition. Mitchell's artistic pursuits were briefly interrupted by his service in the United States Army during World War I.
In 1916, Mitchell enrolled at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, where he honed his skills and received a solid artistic education. His dedication and talent were further acknowledged when he was awarded the prestigious Cresson Traveling Scholarship and the Edward Bok Philadelphia Prize, allowing him to explore European museums in 1920. He completed his studies at the academy in 1921.
Throughout his career, Mitchell held significant positions within the artistic community. He served as the President of the San Diego Art Guild and was instrumental in establishing the San Diego Museum of Art. In 1925, he co-founded the Fine Arts Society of San Diego, and in 1929, he became the founding secretary of the Associated Artists of San Diego, later renamed Contemporary Artists of San Diego.
Mitchell's passion for art extended beyond San Diego. In 1945, he founded the Chula Vista Art Guild in Chula Vista, California, providing a platform for local artists to showcase their work. From 1951 to 1961, he played a pivotal role as the co-founder and president of the La Jolla Art Association in La Jolla, California. His artwork graced the walls of various exhibitions, including the San Diego Fine Arts Gallery from 1920 to 1927 and the La Jolla Library from 1923 to 1966.
With his immense contributions to the art community and his exceptional artistic skill, Alfred R. Mitchell earned the well-deserved title of the "Dean of San Diego County artists." His legacy continues to inspire and influence artists to this day.
Alfred Richard Mitchell, (1888-1972)
American, California
Plein Air Impressionist Landscape, Southern California / San Diego
Oil on Canvas, held to the stretcher, with nails
Estimated to have been created, in approximately 1935. Signed lower center.
The painting alone measures approximately 19" X 23.5", plus the frame
In frame, the painting measures approximately 27.8" X 23"
The painting is signed lower middle, in black. There is also a date of what appears to be '35 or 33.
The painting is in a vintage, black lacquer on a wood frame. The frame is in good and stable condition but is slightly larger than the painting back, and the painting may need to be set, better/more secure into the frame. The top of the frame has a couple of minor chips, etc. from age.
The painting is in very good, original condition. There is one very slight pucker, to the lower left. Almost unnoticeable, but should be mentioned for quality assurance. There is also a very light craquelure. Please review all images, for more details.
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