Sketching Europe: A Tour Through the Eyes of Memphian Samuel H. Crone

On view to the public May 3rd-September 30, 2021

Sketch by Samuel Hester Crone
 
Born in western Tennessee in 1858, Samuel Hester Crone grew up in Memphis. He entered the Royal Academy of Art in Munich (Germany) as a young man and established himself as a professional painter at an early age. He married Sarah Voegtly of Alleghany City, Pennsylvania in London (England) in 1885 and they spent the next 28 years together in Europe. Crone made his living as a painter of landscapes, genre scenes, and portraits, probably mostly for middle class customers.
 
This exhibit showcases sketches and watercolor paintings by Crone in the permanent collection of the Art Museum of the University of Memphis. The exhibition will guide visitors through some of the cities and landscapes of England, France, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy, where Samuel Crone sought inspiration during his life and artistic career. The informal nature of Crone’s sketches offers an intimate view of his artistic process. Donated by his great-nephew William S. Huff, the Art Museum of the University of Memphis houses this collection of rarely seen sketches, personal belongings, and letters.

Installation views of Sketching Europe Exhibition in Samuel Hester Crone Gallery / Listen to curatorial tour audio tour narrations here