Elizabeth Forbes (artist)

Elizabeth Forbes (née Armstrong; 29 December 1859 – 16 March 1912) was a Canadian-British painter and printmaker, known for her genre scenes depicting children and rural life, as well as her portraits. She was a significant figure in the Newlyn School of artists, which flourished in Cornwall, England, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Early Life and Education:

Born in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, Elizabeth Armstrong demonstrated artistic talent from a young age. Her family relocated to the United States, and she received formal art training at the Art Students League of New York under prominent artists such as William Merritt Chase and Walter Shirlaw. She continued her studies in Munich under Karl von Piloty, immersing herself in the academic style prevalent there. Further studies took her to Paris, where she enrolled at the Académie Colarossi, benefiting from the progressive artistic environment and the presence of numerous female artists.

Career and Artistic Style:

Elizabeth Armstrong's style evolved from the academic realism she learned in Munich to a more impressionistic approach influenced by her time in Paris. She was drawn to depicting everyday scenes, often featuring children engaged in play or working in rural settings. Her work is characterized by its naturalism, attention to detail, and sensitive portrayal of her subjects. She worked in various media, including oil paint, watercolor, and etching.

Newlyn School and Marriage:

In 1885, Elizabeth Armstrong moved to Newlyn, Cornwall, a burgeoning artists' colony. She quickly became a prominent member of the Newlyn School, contributing to its reputation for plein air painting and depictions of local life. In 1889, she married fellow artist Stanhope Forbes, solidifying her position within the artistic community. Together, they established the Forbes School of Painting in Newlyn in 1899, which attracted students from across Britain and beyond. Elizabeth Forbes played a crucial role in the school's success, offering instruction and guidance to aspiring artists.

Later Life and Legacy:

Elizabeth Forbes continued to paint and exhibit her work throughout her life. Her works were shown at the Royal Academy, the Paris Salon, and other prestigious venues. Following Stanhope Forbes' election as an Associate of the Royal Academy in 1910, they relocated to Higher Faugan, a larger home with more studio space. Elizabeth Forbes died in 1912 at the age of 52. Her art continues to be admired for its artistic merit and its insightful depiction of Victorian and Edwardian life. Her contributions to the Newlyn School and her influence as an educator are recognized as significant aspects of her legacy.

Notable Works:

Examples of her notable works include "A Street in Newlyn," "Zandvoort Fisher Children," and "The Health of the Bride."