John Inigo Richards facts for kids
John Inigo Richards (1731–1810) was a talented British artist. He was known for painting beautiful landscapes. He was also one of the very first members of the Royal Academy. This important art group started in 1768. Later, he became the secretary for the Academy until he passed away.
Early Life and Art Training
John Inigo Richards began his art journey in London. He studied at the St Martin's Lane Academy. There, he learned from a famous painter named George Lambert. Lambert lived from 1700 to 1765. Some people even called Lambert the "Father of English Landscape Oil Painting." This shows how important he was to art in England.
Working in the Theatre
Besides painting landscapes, Richards also worked in theatres. He was a scene painter in London from 1777 to 1803. This means he designed and painted the backgrounds for plays. He loved theatre design throughout his life.
He even helped design a very special building. This was the Chestnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia. It opened in 1793. This theatre was America's first building made just for professional plays. Richards designed it for his brother-in-law, Thomas Wignell.
Family Connections
When John Inigo Richards passed away in 1810, he recognized his daughter. Her name was Mary Ann Richards. She was born in 1759. He left her a special gift in his will.
