Mary Cassatt
Early Life and Education
Mary Stevenson Cassatt was born on May 22, 1844, in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, which is now part of Pittsburgh. She was born into a wealthy family, which afforded her the opportunity to pursue an education in the arts, a privilege not commonly available to women during that time. Her father, Robert Simpson Cassatt, was a successful stockbroker and land speculator, while her mother, Katherine Kelso Johnston, came from a banking family. This environment provided Mary with a broad cultural exposure, including travel and language education, which would later influence her artistic career.
Cassatt's formal education began at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia, where she enrolled at the age of 15. The academy was one of the few institutions that accepted female students, although they faced significant restrictions compared to their male counterparts. Despite these limitations, Cassatt was determined to succeed and often expressed dissatisfaction with the slow pace and conservative methods of instruction. Her time at the academy was marked by a growing interest in European art, particularly the works of the Old Masters, which she studied through reproductions and books.
Artistic Development in Europe
In 1866, Cassatt moved to Paris to further her studies, a decision that marked the beginning of her lifelong association with France. Although women were not allowed to enroll in the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts, Cassatt studied privately with masters such as Jean-Léon Gérôme and later with Charles Chaplin. She also took advantage of the opportunity to copy paintings at the Louvre, a common practice for aspiring artists of the time.
During her early years in Europe, Cassatt was influenced by the Realism movement, particularly the works of Gustave Courbet and Édouard Manet. Her early works often depicted everyday scenes and were characterized by a meticulous attention to detail. However, it was her exposure to the Impressionist movement that would profoundly impact her style and subject matter.
Association with the Impressionists
Cassatt's association with the Impressionists began in the late 1870s, when she was invited by Edgar Degas to exhibit with the group. Degas, who became a lifelong friend and mentor, recognized Cassatt's talent and encouraged her to explore new techniques and perspectives. This collaboration marked a turning point in her career, as she adopted the Impressionist emphasis on light, color, and everyday subjects.
Cassatt's work during this period often focused on the lives of women and children, capturing intimate moments with a sensitivity and insight that set her apart from her contemporaries. Her paintings, such as "The Child's Bath" and "Little Girl in a Blue Armchair," are celebrated for their innovative compositions and use of color. Cassatt's ability to convey the emotional depth of her subjects made her a prominent figure within the Impressionist circle.
Later Career and Legacy
In the later years of her career, Cassatt continued to explore new themes and techniques, often experimenting with printmaking and pastels. Her works from this period reflect a mature style characterized by bold colors and simplified forms. Despite facing challenges such as deteriorating eyesight, Cassatt remained active in the art world, participating in exhibitions and advocating for the recognition of women artists.
Cassatt's influence extended beyond her own work; she played a crucial role in introducing American audiences to the Impressionist movement. Her efforts to promote Impressionist art in the United States helped to establish its significance within the broader art historical context. Today, Cassatt is celebrated as one of the foremost American artists of the 19th century, and her works are held in major collections worldwide.