James Millar (artist) facts for kids
James Millar was an English artist who lived a long time ago, from about 1735 to 1805. He was famous for painting portraits, which are special pictures of people.
Contents
James Millar: A Portrait Painter
Early Life and Hometown
James Millar was born in the city of Birmingham, England. Records show that he was living there in 1763. He grew up to become one of the most important portrait painters in Birmingham during the late 1700s.
What Kind of Art Did He Make?
Millar was known for his beautiful portraits. He painted many important people of his time. Some of the famous people he painted included John Baskerville, Francis Eginton, and John Freeth. He also painted the wife of Thomas Day, who was a writer and a member of a famous group called the Lunar Society of Birmingham.
His Art Style and Influences
Millar's art was greatly shaped by a movement called the Midlands Enlightenment. This was a time when people in the Midlands region of England were very interested in new ideas about science, art, and learning. One of Millar's paintings even shows symbols of wisdom, science, and the arts. These symbols are shown near the tower of St. Philip's Church in Birmingham.
Where Can You See His Paintings?
James Millar showed his paintings in important art shows in London. He exhibited his work at the Royal Academy and the Society of Artists between 1771 and 1790. Today, you can find his paintings in several museums and galleries. Some of these places include the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, the Wolverhampton Art Gallery, and the National Portrait Gallery, London. His art is also held by the Royal Society and the Cowper and Newton Museum.
