Frank Reaugh (American, 1860-1945)

Paintings

What is a Summary of Texas Artist Frank Reaugh’s Artwork, Style, and Background?

Frank Reaugh was an American artist known as the "Dean of Texas Artists" for his significant influence in the Texas art community and his inspiring landscape works. He primarily worked with pastels and oils to capture the beauty of the Texas landscape, particularly the vastness of the plains and the charm of the Western scenes. Reaugh was also a revered teacher, inventor, naturalist, and rancher, reflecting his varied interests and roles throughout his life.

What is Frank Reaugh’s Connection to Texas?

Reaugh moved to Texas with his family at the age of 15, and the state became his lifelong home and the primary inspiration for his artwork. He was deeply connected to the landscape of West Texas, and his detailed and sensitive portrayals of the land, cattle, and wildlife of Texas have become iconic representations of the state.

What Kind of Art Does Frank Reaugh Make?

Frank Reaugh was primarily a landscape and cattle painter, and he is best known for his detailed, realistic, and atmospheric depictions of the Texas plains. He worked primarily in pastels and oils and was praised for his ability to capture the light, color, and mood of the landscape.

How Did Frank Reaugh Get Started?

Reaugh showed an early interest in art and began sketching the Texas landscapes and animals around him shortly after moving to the state. He later studied art in St. Louis and Europe, and upon returning to Texas, he began to establish himself as a significant artist through his landscape and cattle paintings. He also became a respected teacher, sharing his love for the Texas landscape and his knowledge of painting techniques with countless students.

Where Have Frank Reaugh’s Works Been Exhibited?

Frank Reaugh's works have been exhibited at numerous venues in Texas and beyond. This includes the Texas State Capitol, the Dallas Museum of Art, the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, and the Harry Ransom Center at the University of Texas at Austin. His work has also been featured in a traveling exhibition, "Seeing Texas: Frank Reaugh, Pastel Poet of the Texas Plains."

Who Influenced Frank Reaugh’s Style?

Frank Reaugh was influenced by a range of artists and experiences. He was particularly influenced by the works of Charles-François Daubigny and the Barbizon school during his studies in Europe. However, his greatest influence was the Texas landscape itself, which informed the subject matter, color, light, and mood of his work.