Society of Western Artists (1896–1914)


The Society of Western Artists was founded by William Forsyth, T. C. Steele, J. Ottis Adams, John Elwood Bundy and fourteen other artists in 1896.

Objective of Society

The Society of Western Artists "was organized in 1896 for the purpose of uniting artists in fellowship and of combining their efforts in the advancement of Art. As one of the means to this end the Society gathers together, annually, a collection of representative works, chiefly done in the middle west, and exhibits the collection in various cities."

Area of Activity

These painters most of whom were impressionists were active primarily in the American Midwest.

Other Members

Other members included Frank J. Girardin, Frank Reaugh and Mathias Alten, and the miniature portraitist Edward William Carlson.

Development as a Society

"The Society of Western Artists feels that it has passed beyond its first youth, and that it can afford to take upon itself a more critical and dignified attitude."—Edmund H. Wuerpel

Exhibitions

Annual exhibitions traveled to U.S. cities which included Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, St. Louis and later Columbus, Pittsburgh, and Toledo.
Among these exhibitions were: