About this artwork
Born in Amesbury, Massachusetts on August 3, 1861, artist and educator Ralph Elmer Clarkson played an important role in the development of Chicago’s artistic establishment at the turn of the 19th century. After several years working in New York, Paris and Italy, Clarkson settled in Chicago in 1896. While living in Chicago, Clarkson taught painting at the School of the Art Institute and was the president of several notable arts organizations including the Chicago Society of Artists, the Art Commission of Chicago, and the Art Commission of the state of Illinois. Clarkson was also active in the Cliff Dwellers club, the Illinois Athletic Club and the Eagle’s Nest Camp. This collection sketches a broad view of the career of Ralph E. Clarkson (1861–1942), including photographs, printed materials, manuscripts and correspondence. Highlights include photographs of many of Clarkson’s artworks, clippings relating to the life of Lorado Taft, Clarkson’s colleague, and letters regarding his works and other social matters.
Collection access:
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Oral histories
Contact the Ryerson and Burnham Art and Architecture Archives:
archives@artic.edu
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Status
- Currently Off View
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Department
- AIC Archives
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Artist
- Ralph Elmer Clarkson
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Title
- Ralph E. Clarkson Papers
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Date
- Made 1900–1941
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Medium
- Photographs, correspondence and printed papers.
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Dimensions
- 1 box: W.: 15.3 cm (6 in.)
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Credit Line
- Gift of Frank Wadsworth, 2005.
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Reference Number
- 2005.5
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.
