Harold Speed

Harold Speed was an English painter in oil and watercolor of portraits, figures and historical subjects. He was born in London on February 11, 1872, to a middle-class family. He studied architecture at the Royal Academy Schools, but switched to painting after winning a gold medal for his drawing of a live model.

What were Speed's principles?

Speed was a firm believer in the importance of drawing from life. He believed that artists should learn to see the world accurately and to express their observations in a clear and concise way. He also believed in the importance of imagination and creativity. He encouraged artists to experiment and to find their own unique voice.

What was Speed famous for?

Speed was famous for his realistic and expressive portraits. He also painted historical subjects, landscapes, and still lifes. His work was praised for its technical skill, its emotional depth, and its originality.

What was Speed's philosophy?

Speed's philosophy of art was based on the belief that art should be truthful, expressive, and original. He believed that artists should strive to capture the essence of the world around them, and to communicate their own unique vision through their work.

When did Speed die?

Speed died on March 20, 1957, at the age of 85. He is remembered as one of the most important English painters of the 20th century.

How is Speed remembered?

Speed is remembered for his realistic and expressive portraits, his historical subjects, his landscapes, and his still lifes. His work is praised for its technical skill, its emotional depth, and its originality. Speed's paintings are held in major museums around the world, including the Tate Gallery in London, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra.

Anything interesting to know about the author?

• Speed was a lifelong student of art and anatomy. He was a member of the Royal Academy and the Royal Society of British Artists.
• Speed was also a talented writer and teacher. He wrote several books on art, including "The Practice and Science of Drawing" and "The Art of Painting."
• Speed was a lifelong advocate for the importance of art education. He believed that everyone should have the opportunity to learn to draw and paint.