Aaron Shikler facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Aaron Shikler
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Aaron Shikler at The Art of the Portrait Conference, 10th Anniversary Celebration
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| Born | March 18, 1922 |
| Died | November 12, 2015 (aged 93) Manhattan, New York City
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| Nationality | American |
| Education | The High School of Music & Art Temple University's Tyler School of Art Hans Hofmann |
| Known for | Portrait Painting |
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Notable work
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The John F. Kennedy Official Portrait |
| Spouse(s) | Barbara Shikler |
Aaron Abraham Shikler (born March 18, 1922 – died November 12, 2015) was a famous American artist. He was best known for painting portraits of important American leaders, like John F. Kennedy, and other well-known people.
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Early Life and Education
Aaron Shikler was born in Brooklyn, New York City, on March 18, 1922. His parents were immigrants from Eastern Europe. After finishing high school at The High School of Music & Art in 1940, he studied art at the Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia. He also learned from Hans Hofmann in New York City.
In 1943, Aaron joined the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He worked as a cartographer, which means he made maps, in Europe. After the war, he married Barbara Lurie, whom he had met at art school. They had two children together, Cathy and Clifford.
Famous Works and Portraits
Aaron Shikler became very well-known for his portraits. In 1970, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the wife of former President John F. Kennedy, personally chose him. She wanted him to paint the official White House portrait of her late husband, Oil Portrait of John F. Kennedy. This painting is now a very important part of American history.
Shikler also painted official White House portraits of First Ladies Jacqueline Kennedy and Nancy Reagan. He also painted portraits of the Kennedy children. His artwork can be found in many famous museums. These include The Brooklyn Museum of Art and The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Awards and Recognition
Aaron Shikler received many awards for his artistic talent. In 1962, he became an associate of the National Academy of Design. He was then elected as a full academician in 1965.
He also won the Louis Comfort Tiffany Award in 1957. He received the Thomas B. Clarke Prize multiple times. In 1976, he earned a Certificate of Honor from the Tyler School of Art.
Later Life and Death
Aaron Shikler continued to paint in his studio at home for many years. He passed away on November 12, 2015, at the age of 93. He died from kidney failure and was surrounded by his family. He left behind his two children and four grandchildren.
Gallery
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Jackie Kennedy's official White House portrait by Shikler hangs in the Vermeil Room.
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Official Presidential portrait of John F. Kennedy painted by Shikler.
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Nancy Reagan's official White House portrait by Shikler hangs in the Vermeil Room.
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Official Senate portrait of Tom Daschle
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Portrait of Montana Senator Mike Mansfield
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Mother and Daughter featuring Aaron's daughter Cathy and grandchild Isabella
