Three of my Favorite Historical Still Life Artists that have Influenced My Work

Today I thought I’d share some of my favorite historical still life artists who have influenced my work the most.

The reason why is because most only know of my contemporary still life influences, but what most don’t know is that the historical influences I’m about to share have been an even BIGGER influence on me than the contemporary ones. 

Now I wish these influences were women artists, but sadly women weren’t even ALLOWED to be artists back then.

Can you even believe that?

More on that topic to come later because it’s a personal mission of mine to uplift women artists, but for now, let’s look at these beautiful paintings. 

1. William Merritt Chase

Did you know that Chase got started as a still life painter? He painted so many still lifes! I really love all of his work, but his still lifes and his interiors are my favorites.

I’m not a huge fan of all the fish he painted. Gosh, his studio must have really reeked on those days.

Here’s a beautiful one called “Still Life with Fish”.

Here’s a non-fishy one: 

2. Soren Emil Carlsen

Soren painted primarily still lifes with a handful of landscapes thrown in. He’s been one of my biggest inspirations even though his work sometimes is more quiet and refined than my own.

I still love pretty much every painting he ever did and have learned so much from him!

Here are a couple of his paintings. The second painting is “Roses in an Urn”.

By the way, have you ever wondered why it is that men can paint flowers without being looked down upon? Me too. It’s a beautiful piece for sure!

3. Of course- CHARDIN!

You almost can’t mention still life painting without talking about Chardin. His paintings were some of the first paintings I ever copied as a student. He made me fall in love with still life and light and shadow painting. You might even say he invented the shelf edge kitchen still life!

I hope you enjoyed seeing some of my favorite paintings from historical still life artists! Can you see the influence? 

What are your favorite historical still life artists?

Let me know in the comments below. 

P.S. I’ll be having a Black Friday Sale and Thanksgiving giveaway soon!

To get notified of the sale and to be entered in the art giveaway simply sign up for free as a member of my Collector’s Circle here: http://eepurl.com/dpg-_9