William Clapp Art

A brilliant early 20th century impressionist floral still-life by William Clapp (American, 1879-1954). Beautiful and bold, this 1920's pink floral still-life pops against a bright blue background. The artist uses expressive and loose brushstrokes in a fun and energetic palette, bringing a dynamic and lively energy to this one-of-a-kind piece. Signed lower right, "W. Clapp". Oil on old Canada packing crate board and presented in a rustic wood frame. Board size: 20"H x 24"L. Framed size: 24"H x 28"W. This an early work by the artist which is distinctive in his bold Impressionist style before he merged into his signature pointillist style. Born in Montreal, Canada of American parents on Oct. 29, 1879. At age six Clapp moved to California with his family, settling in Oakland where he spent his childhood. In 1900 he returned to Montreal for four years of study with Wm Brymner followed by further study in Paris at Académies Julian, Colarossi, and Grande Chaumière. He then returned to Montreal where he was elected an associate member of the Royal Canadian Art Academy. He lived and worked in Cuba before returning to Oakland in 1917. He then served as director and curator of the Oakland Art Gallery from 1918-49. In this position, and as a member of a group of painters called the Society of Six...