John White Alexander: Comparing Opportunities for Artists in Europe/USA, 1901-1912

"Repose" by John White Alexander

It is very interesting to get the perspective of fine artists in America at the turn of the century (1900) as they were either seeking good instruction here, overcoming attitudes towards the art profession in the States, or searching for a unique American style of art. In this essay, John White Alexander compares the philosophy and opportunities for artists in America and Europe at that time:

"The relation of the people towards Art differs greatly in this country [America] from that existing in Europe. In the first place, over there its governmental recognition as a large factor in public education - dignifies it in the eyes of the people.

In Europe Art is not a luxury - for the exclusive enjoyment of the very rich. It is a possession and vital part of the life of even the poorest and humblest citizen. The same faculty is shown in the wonderful classification and arrangements of the exhibits in their museums. I have had occasion several times to hunt up costumes and details for my work and I can testify to the ease with which I found what I wanted - and also to the invariable courtesy, interest and even eagerness shown by the directors and attendants to help and make everything as easy as possible for me.

It is certain that one of the greatest incentives to work is the feeling that others have confidence that what we are engaged in doing is really worthwhile, and governmental recognition of Art certainly would seem to denote this confidence on their part as to the value of the artists' work. The schools that are built for him and the galleries that are open to him give his profession an importance that is at once noble and dignified.

The artist and art artisan in France knows at once where he will be able to find the best examples of what has already been accomplished in all the different branches of his particular artwork - and this applies not only to France but to all the principle countries of Europe. 

The number of schools associated with the Fine Arts and Applied Arts in France are too numerous to mention.

The French Government publishes and sells at less than cost, books on the subject of the Fine and Applied Arts. One can get for a franc the book on painting, which will give both simple and detailed information on the subject.

The local government in all the departments of France aid and encourage the young men of talent in their district by prizes and patronage. These young men of talent are eventually sent to Paris entering the schools and kept well in view by the Inspectors of Beaux Arts who distribute the government patronage. The immature but carefully chosen works of these young students are actually purchased by the government and sent to the provinces where they become the nucleus of future museums. 

Leon Bonnat, once of the best known modern French portrait painters was sent to Paris from his native village in this way. He now owns one of the finest private collections in Paris and at his death this collection will go to his native town as an expression of his gratitude for its timely help, without which he never could have attained the eminence which he now enjoys."

To be continued

(Excerpts from a speech by John White Alexander, ca. 1901-1912 comparing opportunities and support for artists in Europe and the USA: https://www.aaa.si.edu/collections/john-white-alexander-papers-8637/series-5/box-1-folder-80 )