James Humbert Craig facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Humbert Craig
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| Born | 12 July 1877 Belfast, Ireland
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| Died | 12 June 1944 (aged 66) Cushendall, County Antrim
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James Humbert Craig (born 12 July 1877 in Belfast – died 12 June 1944) was a famous Irish painter. He was best known for his beautiful landscape paintings. Craig captured the stunning views of places like County Donegal, Connemara, and the Glens of Antrim. His art helped inspire other artists, such as Maurice Canning Wilks. He even had his work shown at the 1932 Summer Olympics art competition!
Growing Up and Family Life
James Humbert Craig was born in Belfast, Ireland. His father, Alexander Craig, was a tea merchant. His mother, Marie Metzenen, came from Switzerland and had a family history of painting. This is likely where James got his artistic talent!
His family moved to Bangor, County Down, where they built a house called 'Craigwelyn'. James grew up in a comfortable home and was taught by private tutors. He loved sports, especially anything to do with the sea. He enjoyed sailing, swimming, and angling with his father. He was also a strong player of rugby and football. He even helped start the Bangor Rugby Club!
When he was 14, James started working with his father in the tea business. But he soon realized his true passion was painting. He briefly attended the Belfast School of Art. After a short time, he traveled to America. While there, he even helped paint the Brooklyn Bridge when it was being built!
His Artistic Journey
James Craig's first art show was in 1915 at the Royal Hibernian Academy. Over the years, he became a member of several important art groups. These included the Belfast Art Society and the Ulster Society of Painters. In 1928, he had a very successful year. He showed his art in London and became a member of the Royal Hibernian Academy.
Craig even got to represent Ireland in the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics art competition. He chose to paint only when he felt truly inspired, not just for money. He traveled across Europe, visiting places like Spain, Switzerland, and France. However, his favorite place to paint was always his home in Ireland. He felt most inspired by the Irish landscapes.
He loved painting outdoors. He once said that if other painters knew how charming the Glens were, they would come from all over the world to paint them. James Craig continued to paint until his death in 1944. He always focused on Irish subjects and didn't follow the newer art styles from other countries.
