William Cochran (artist) facts for kids
William Cochran (born in 1738, died in 1785) was a talented Scottish painter.
Contents
William Cochran: Scottish Painter
Early Life and Training
William Cochran was born in a place called Strathearn, located in Clydesdale, Scotland. He began his art education at the Academy of Painting in Glasgow. This art school was started by two well-known printers, Robert and Andrew Foulis.
Studying in Italy
Around 1761, William traveled to Italy. While there, he studied painting with a famous artist named Gavin Hamilton. Studying in Italy helped him learn new techniques and styles.
Return to Glasgow and Art Style
When he returned to Glasgow around 1766, William became a portrait painter. He created pictures of people using oil paints. He also made very small, detailed portraits called miniatures. While he was in Rome, he painted scenes from old stories or myths, known as fables. Some of these paintings can still be found in Glasgow today.
William Cochran was a very humble artist. He never showed his paintings in public art shows. He also did not sign his name on his artworks.
Legacy
William Cochran passed away in Glasgow in 1785. He was buried in the cathedral. A special monument was built there to remember him and his artistic contributions.