Mary Cassatt (1844 – 1926) was an American painter and printmaker who left an indelible mark on the Impressionist movement and the world of art in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born on May 22, 1844, in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania (now part of Pittsburgh), Mary Cassatt’s artistic journey led her to become one of the few American artists to have a significant impact on the French art scene and the broader international art world. Cassatt was born into a well-to-do family that valued culture and education. She received a strong foundation in the arts and traveled extensively throughout Europe with her family, exposing her to the great European art collections. Her formal art education began in earnest when she enrolled at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in 1860, where she studied under some influential artists. In 1866, Cassatt moved to Paris to pursue her art studies further and immerse herself in the vibrant European art scene. She initially studied privately under various instructors before entering the Ecole des Beaux-Arts, a prestigious institution typically reserved for male students. Cassatt’s determination and talent eventually earned her acceptance and allowed her to refine her skills under the guidance of Jean-Léon Gérôme. During her time in Paris, Cassatt encountered the works of the Impressionist painters, including Edgar Degas, Édouard Manet, and Claude Monet. Their innovative approach to art, characterized by the emphasis on capturing light, color, and the fleeting moments of everyday life, deeply influenced her own artistic style. Cassatt’s close association with Edgar Degas, in particular, had a profound impact on her work. The two artists shared a strong friendship and mutual admiration for each other’s talents. Degas invited her to exhibit with the Impressionists, making her the only American and one of the few women to be included in their exhibitions. This recognition helped her gain exposure and credibility within the art world. Cassatt’s art primarily focused on the depiction of women and children in everyday domestic scenes. Her mastery of capturing intimate moments, often featuring the bond between mothers and children, became a hallmark of her work. Notable paintings like “The Child’s Bath” and “The Boating Party” showcase her ability to convey emotion and intimacy through her brushwork. Throughout her career, Mary Cassatt faced challenges as a female artist in a male-dominated field. However, her determination and talent allowed her to break through these barriers. She exhibited widely and gained recognition for her unique contributions to the Impressionist movement. Her innovative approach to color and composition, as well as her subject matter, helped redefine the traditional roles of women in art and society. As the years went by, Cassatt’s eyesight began to deteriorate, which limited her ability to paint. Despite this setback, she continued to be active in the art world, advising collectors and promoting the work of her fellow Impressionists. Mary Cassatt passed away on June 14, 1926, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire artists and art enthusiasts around the world. Her contributions to the Impressionist movement and her dedication to portraying the beauty of everyday life have cemented her place as one of the most influential American artists in history. Her works can be found in museums and galleries worldwide, a testament to the enduring significance of her art and her pioneering spirit as a woman in the world of 19th-century art. Oil Paintings & Art Reproductions For Sale