James Shaw (artist) facts for kids

James Shaw in 1836

James Shaw in 1860

James Shaw in 1875

James Shaw (born 12 January 1815 – died 1 September 1881) was a very talented Scottish person. He was a painter, photographer, and also worked as an engraver, lithographer, surveyor, and lawyer. He was also one of the first people to settle in South Australia.

James Shaw's Early Life and Career

James Shaw was born on January 12, 1815, in Dumfries, Scotland. His parents were James and Isabella Shaw. His father worked as a clerk and proofreader, but he also enjoyed painting as a hobby.

James went to Edinburgh Royal High School. After that, he studied law at the University of Edinburgh.

In September 1836, James left Edinburgh and traveled to Jamaica. He went there to work as a bookkeeper. In his free time, he loved to paint. Soon, people noticed how good he was at art. They started asking him to create paintings for them. By 1841, he also became a surveyor. At this time, he began painting portraits for people too.

In 1847, James Shaw learned how to take photographs. He quickly became a skilled photographer.

Moving to Australia and Artistic Achievements

On July 5, 1850, James Shaw married Janet Liddle Paterson. After they got married, they decided to move to Adelaide in South Australia.

In 1857, James showed some of his paintings at the first exhibition of the South Australian Society of Arts. He was one of the people who helped start this art group. His work was recognized with an honorable mention. He continued to paint and show his art until 1871.

Discovering James Shaw's Artworks

The Art Gallery of South Australia has a large collection of James Shaw's artworks. His paintings often show scenes from the places he lived and worked.

Here are some of James Shaw's works from the 1860s:

• 1860 Lunatic Asylum, North Terrace (near cnr Hackney Rd)
• 1861 "Kingsford", a house near Gawler built by Stephen King sr
• 1864 All Saints Church, Hindmarsh
• 1865 Panoramic view of Adelaide from Montefiore Hill
• 1865 Inside Old Parliament House, The Chamber (later the Legislative Council)
• 1865 Woolwashing on the River Torrens at Hindmarsh
• 1866 Gawler Town, general view from the south

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  James Shaw, 1859, The Admella Wrecked, Cape Banks, 6th August, 1859, an oil painting. This painting is at the Art Gallery of South Australia.