Guy C. Wiggins: The Impressionist Master of Winter Scenes

A Painter of Cityscapes and Landscapes

Guy Carleton Wiggins is renowned for his captivating impressionist paintings of New York City's snowy streets, iconic landmarks, and towering skyscrapers during winter. His artwork transported viewers to the heart of the city, where the cold, grey stone and steel skyscrapers were transformed into a winter wonderland, bathed in soft, warm light.

Early Life and Training

Born on February 23, 1883, in Brooklyn, Wiggins was fortunate to have an accomplished artist as a father, Carleton Wiggins, who provided his son with his first training as a painter. He attended the Brooklyn Polytechnic Institute, the Art Students League of New York, and the National Academy of Design, where he was taught by distinguished artists such as William Merritt Chase and Robert Henri.

A Career of Capturing the Seasons

Wiggins' artwork is a testament to his love for capturing the changing seasons. His impressionist style shines in works like "Berkshire Hills, June" (Brooklyn Museum), where the warmth of the summer sun is palpable. He traveled extensively throughout New England, painting streams, fields, and woodlands, documenting the beauty of each season.

The Old Lyme Art Colony and Teaching

Wiggins became one of the youngest members of the prestigious Old Lyme Art Colony in Connecticut, where he painted alongside his father, Carleton, as well as notable artists Childe Hassam and Frank Vincent DuMond. In 1937, he began teaching art in Essex, Connecticut, sharing his passion and expertise with a new generation of artists.

Presidential Portrait and Honors

In 1959, Wiggins created a portrait of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, which he gifted to the White House. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades, including the Flagg Prize, the Cooper Prize, and the Atheneum Prize from the Connecticut Academy of Fine Arts, as well as the Harris Medal from the Art Institute of Chicago.

Legacy and Influence

Wiggins' contributions to American art are multifaceted. As a member of the National Academy of Design, the New Haven Paint and Clay Club, and the Lyme Art Association, he helped shape the art world of his time. His paintings continue to inspire artists and art enthusiasts alike, offering a glimpse into the beauty and charm of a bygone era.

A Life of Art and Devotion

Throughout his life, Wiggins remained dedicated to his craft, leaving behind a legacy of stunning works that continue to captivate audiences. His artwork is a testament to his passion, talent, and dedication to capturing the beauty of the world around him.

SELECTED WORKS

• The Metropolitan Tower (Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York)
• Washington Square in Winter (Richmond Art Museum, Indiana)
• Columbia Circle, Winter (National Gallery of Art, Washington)
• Riverside Drive (1915)
• Berkshire Hills, June (Brooklyn Museum)

A Life Well-Painted

Guy C. Wiggins' remarkable life was a testament to his dedication to art, family, and community. His artwork continues to inspire and delight, offering a glimpse into the beauty and charm of a bygone era.