William Thomas Smedley

William Thomas Smedley (1858–1920), American, William Thomas Smedley, born on March 26, 1858, in Chester County, Pennsylvania, emerged from a Quaker family to become a distinguished American artist. His journey into the arts began with a stint at a newspaper, followed by formal studies in engraving and art at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia. A thirst for broader horizons led him to the South Seas and later to Paris, where he honed his skills under the tutelage of Jean-Paul Laurens. By 1880, Smedley had established himself in New York City, where his career flourished. His artistic contributions were not confined to a single medium; he excelled in magazine and book illustrations, particularly for stories depicting modern life, and also made his mark with portraits and watercolors. His talents were recognized with the Evans Prize from the American Watercolor Society in 1890 and a bronze medal at the Paris Exposition in 1900. Smedley's work extended beyond the canvas, as evidenced by his collaboration with the Marquis of Lorne on 'Picturesque Canada' and his engravings for 'The Picturesque Atlas of Australasia.' In 1905, his achievements were further acknowledged when he was elected a member of the National Academy of Design. Smedley's legacy includes his 1912 work, 'The Mystery of Francis Bacon.' He passed away on his birthday, March 26, 1920, in Bronxville, New York, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be celebrated for its diversity and skill.