William MacTaggart facts for kids
Sir William MacTaggart (1903–1981) was a famous Scottish painter. He was well-known for his beautiful landscape paintings. He often painted scenes from East Lothian in Scotland, as well as places in France and Norway. To tell him apart from his grandfather, who was also a painter named William McTaggart, he was sometimes called William MacTaggart the Younger.
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Early Life and Art Education
William MacTaggart was born on May 15, 1903. His birthplace was Westbank in Loanhead, Midlothian, Scotland. His father, Hugh Holmes MacTaggart, was an engineer.
William went to the Edinburgh College of Art from 1918 to 1921. There, he met many other young artists. These friends included William Gillies, Anne Redpath, and John Maxwell. This group of artists later became known as the Edinburgh School. One of his friends, William Crozier, greatly influenced William's art. William even traveled with Crozier to the south of France. These trips were for painting and also for William's health.
Becoming a Professional Artist
In 1927, William MacTaggart joined a group called the Society of Eight. Famous artists like Francis Cadell and Samuel Peploe were also members. Two years later, he had his first art show where only his paintings were displayed. In the early 1930s, he shared an art studio with his friend William Gillies.
Teaching and Leadership Roles
William MacTaggart started teaching at the Edinburgh College of Art in 1933. He also became the president of the Society of Scottish Artists. He held this important role from 1933 to 1936.
In 1948, the Royal Scottish Academy made him an Academician. This is a special title for respected artists. He later served as their president from 1959 to 1969. He was also a member of the Royal Academy in London. In 1962, he was knighted, which means he received the title "Sir."
In 1967, he became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh. This is an honor for people who have made important contributions to science and knowledge. William MacTaggart passed away on January 9, 1981.
Family Life
In 1937, William MacTaggart married Fanny Margaretha Basilier Aavatsmark. She was from Norway.
