Walter Biggs
American painter
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Walter Joseph Biggs (June 4, 1886 – February 11, 1968) was an American illustrator and fine art painter.[1]
Walter J. Biggs | |
|---|---|
| Born | June 4, 1886 |
| Died | February 11, 1968 (aged 81) |
| Occupations | Illustrator and painter |
| Spouse | Mildred Armstrong (1923 - ca. 1937, divorce) |
Biography
Biggs was born in Elliston, Virginia, in 1886. He studied in New York City at the New York School of Art. He was a student of Robert Henri, and some of his fellow students included Edward Hopper and Rockwell Kent.[2] He later taught at the Art Students League and the New York School of Art.[3] He lived in the suburban community of New Rochelle which was a well known artist colony and home to many of the top commercial illustrators of the day such as Frank and J. C. Leyendecker and Norman Rockwell.[4] Also in residence were Al Parker, Mead Schaeffer and Dean Cornwell, who, along with Tom Lovell, N. C. Wyeth and Harold von Schmidt would become leaders in the field.[5]
Biggs became known in the 1920s and 1930s for his illustrations for popular magazines such as the Ladies' Home Journal.[6]
In 1944, Biggs was elected into the National Academy of Design as an Associate member, and became a full member in 1947. In 1963 he was inducted into the Society of Illustrators Hall of Fame.[6]
Walter Biggs died February 11, 1968. An historical marker was erected at the intersection of Roanoke Boulevard and College Street, in Salem, Virginia, across from Biggs’ family home.[7]
