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George CatlinAmerican traveler and painter
Date of Birth: 26.07.1796
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Focus on Native American Portraits
- Unrecognized Genius in America
- Personal Tragedy and Bankruptcy
- Return to America and Untimely Demise
- Literary Contributions
- - Portfolio of 25 hunting scenes from the American West (1844)
Early Life and Education
George Catlin, an American traveler and painter, was born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, in 1796. From an early age, he held a deep fascination for the lives of North American Indians. Despite his parents' wishes for him to pursue law, he abandoned his legal career to become a portrait artist.
Focus on Native American Portraits
Catlin's artistic focus gradually narrowed to portraits of Indians. He embarked on extensive travels, studying the lives of various tribes. He created numerous portraits and sketches, documenting their customs and traditions. Additionally, he published several books on Indian culture, seeking to dispel the prevailing view of Indians as uncivilized savages.
Unrecognized Genius in America
In 1836, Catlin held an exhibition in the United States showcasing approximately 500 of his works, but it failed to generate much public interest. This lack of appreciation may have prompted his decision to relocate with his family to England.
Personal Tragedy and Bankruptcy
In England, Catlin endured personal tragedy with the death of his wife and one of his sons from illness. His remaining children were taken in by his wife's family. By 1852, Catlin faced bankruptcy and was forced to sell a significant portion of his paintings.
Return to America and Untimely Demise
In 1870, Catlin returned to the United States, where his artwork continued to languish in obscurity. He passed away in 1872, unrecognized for his pioneering efforts to document and preserve Native American culture. His remains lie at Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn.
Literary Contributions
Throughout his life, George Catlin authored several publications, including:
- "Illustrations of the manners, customs and condition of the North American Indians" (1841, 1876) with 300 engravings
- Portfolio of 25 hunting scenes from the American West (1844)
- "Notes of eight years travels and residence in Europe" (1848)- "Last rambles amongst Indians, Rocky Mountains and Andes" (1867)
