The Life and Art of Donald Mattison
Born in the United States, Donald Mattison was a painter who demonstrated an early and unwavering commitment to his craft. After studying at Yale University, where he excelled as a draftsman and painter, he moved to Chicago in 1927 to serve as an assistant to the muralist Eugene Savage. His talent was recognized early when he won the Prix de Rome in 1928, a prestigious scholarship that allowed him to study overseas. During this time, he was a fellow at the American Academy in Rome, living in Europe for three years alongside his wife, Catherine Lucille Morrison.
Upon returning to the United States, Mattison took on various teaching roles, including positions at New York University, Columbia University, and the New York School of Design. In 1933, he began a long tenure at the John Herron Art School in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he eventually served as dean. Throughout his career, he remained a dedicated practitioner, often spending hours in his studio to perfect his work.
Artistic Style and Notable Works
Mattison was a realist painter who focused on conveying emotion and the beauty of everyday life. His technique involved a meticulous process of creating a series of sketches to ensure every detail was satisfied before applying paint to the canvas. His work is noted for its use of color and light to highlight movement and emotion, a quality sometimes compared to the style of Rembrandt. While he produced many easel paintings, he was also a skilled muralist and lithographer.
His diverse body of work includes:
