Charles Ethan Porter

"Apples", by Charles Ethan Porter.
Please enjoy these references to the work of my neighbor in time and space.

Wikipedia's fine Biography of Charles Ethan Porter 

Black Intelligensia
Black American Art

Mark Twain Protege

Vernon Rockville area Art.  
Fine Artists of the Florence School

Charles Ethan Porter was born near my old bungalow in Vernon Connecticut, was a protege of Mark Twain, who raised the money to send Mr. Porter to Paris to refine the training of the talented Rockville, Connecticut native. And yet, it is said that Mister Porter painted in the Florentine (Florence, Italy) style. In either cast, with Charles Ethan Porter, it was always an elegant style.

At one time, his artwork was so much in demand he kept a studio on Fox Hill AND one in Hartford.
He was an important member of the "Black Elite" in those days, as well. See the links below for details.

All sources agree his work was later suppressed by racial discrimination, only to triumphantly re-emerge in these more correct times.

But many of his paintings remain hidden, from those old days, to make grand discoveries by descendants.
The new day we enjoy today is making it possible for all to enjoy his fine work once more.

 

Vernon Historical Society

Links to Charles Ethan Porter art online...
much of it from our Connecticut Historical or the Amazing Mr. David Driskell of Black American Arts Fame.

1. This one from the Arts Center named for the famed David C. Driskell, the Charleton Heston of Black American Arts elite: https://driskellcenter.umd.edu 

2. More on C.E. Porter - https://spu.edu/depts/uc/response/new/2016-summer/features/charles-ethan-porter.asp

3.  Citizens of Color, 1863-1890: The Black Elite: The The "Talented Tenth". Charles Ethan Porter. http://www.hartford-hwp.com/HBHP/exhibit/05/3.html 

4. Top Source for all things "Charles Ethan Porter" at the Vernon Connecticut Historical Society Vernon's Fox Hill with its three-state view was Mr. Porter's home for part of his life. 
Mr. Porter's archived writings include a recommendation from Mark Twain, courtesy letters of introduction, and the Historical Society here has reverently Archived and shared his work and history.  Mr. Porter's work and life are favorite Vernon school display projects. 

Whatever your source, do look up his work - it is truly elegant and top-notch! 

Charles Ethan Porter noted Black American Painter