Arthur Hughes
Arthur Hughes was an English artist who lived from 1832 to 1915. He was most closely associated with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood art movement that occurred in Great Britain during the mid-nineteenth century. His work is known for its bright colors, delicate lines, and fine detail.
Hughes was born in London, England. He began his art training in 1846 at age 14 at the School of Design at Somerset House, learning under the well-known artist, portrait artist, Alfred Stevens. In 1847, at 15, Hughes was admitted to the prestigious Royal Academy of Art. At age 17, he won an award for one of his paintings. That same year, he first exhibited at one of the Academy’s art shows. He would continue to exhibit his work here for the rest of his life, until 1908.
In 1850, Hughes met fellow artists, William Holman Hunt, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, and John Everett Millais. All of these men were founders of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. He soon after transitioned his art to follow some of the Pre-Raphaelite ideals. Hughes was deeply inspired by his friendship with Millais. He was quite successful during his lifetime. He formed close friendships with many leading artists and writers of the day. Hughes was good friends with the Scottish fairytale writer, George MacDonald, and illustrated some of his books, including his most famous book, The Princess and the Goblin.
In 1855, Hughes married Tryphena Foord, his model for his well-known painting, “April Love”. They had five kids and settled down into married life. Hughes spent the next several decades working on book illustrations which kept him busy and provided for his family. He was a shy and modest man and was well-liked by everyone. There were several other artists in the family. Hughes’ son, Arthur Ford, was an artist. He was also the uncle to Edward Robert Hughes. Edward was a member of the second generation of Pre-Raphaelite artists, and is most known for his iconic painting, “Midsummer Eve”.
Arthur Hughes died in 1915 at 83 years old.
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