Alberto Orrego Luco Facts for Kids

Self-portrait (date unknown)

Alberto Orrego Luco (born April 20, 1854, in Valparaíso – died June 2, 1931, in Santiago) was a talented Chilean artist. He was known for his beautiful landscape paintings. He also worked as a diplomat, representing his country in other nations. He painted in a style called Impressionism.

About Alberto Orrego Luco
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About Alberto Orrego Luco

Early Life and First Paintings

Alberto Orrego Luco was born into a wealthy family of farmers. His younger brother, Luis, also became a diplomat and a popular writer. Alberto first went to an English school. Later, because of money problems, he attended the Instituto Nacional. It was there that he started painting. His first art show was in 1872. It was part of a competition for the new Mercado Central de Santiago.

Studying Art in Europe

In 1873, with his mother's help, Alberto traveled to Europe. He went with his sister Elena and his future brother-in-law, Pedro Lira. At first, he was supposed to study medicine at the Sorbonne. But he chose to follow his passion for painting instead. He learned from famous artists like Alexandre Cabanel. He also studied at the Académie Julian, a well-known art school.

The Chilean government recognized his talent. They gave him money to help him continue his studies. This support allowed him to show his art at the Salon in Paris in 1877. He then traveled to Italy, where he lived for almost ten years. During this time, he painted many landscapes and city scenes.

Diplomat and Artist

Alberto got married in Italy in 1883. Five years later, he became a consul for Chile in Venice. A consul is a diplomat who helps citizens from their home country living abroad.

He returned to Chile in 1890. Two years later, he became a consul again, this time in Seville, Spain. During this period, his paintings became brighter. He also started adding fruits and flowers to his artworks. Even though he didn't enter art shows himself, his mother secretly arranged for his paintings to be shown. He won several awards in Chile.

Later Years and Return to Chile

After a few years back in Chile, he was offered a new job in 1897. He became the Consul General for Italy, based in Genoa. He loved Italy and thought of it as a second home, so he happily accepted. However, his work as a diplomat took up most of his time, leaving little for painting.

By 1914, he was living in Rome again. Even with the problems of World War I, he wanted to stay. But his wife became ill and could not get proper treatment there. So, they returned to Chile. Sadly, the improved medical care did not help, and she passed away soon after. The early death of one of his daughters also deeply affected him. These sad events made him feel very lonely and quiet. This sadness was often seen in his paintings from that time.

Alberto Orrego Luco died peacefully at home. He was buried in his family's tomb next to his wife.