Born on August 25, 1724, in Liverpool, England, George Stubbs was the son of a leather specialist and tradesman. Growing up in a bustling port city, he developed a love for animals at a young age. His artistic talent began to emerge during his youth, and he spent countless hours sketching the horses that passed through the streets of Liverpool.
Despite not receiving a formal education in art, Stubbs was a diligent and self-taught artist. He honed his skills through persistent practice and observation, constantly striving to improve his technique. This dedication to his craft would serve him well in his future career as a painter.
In the mid-1700s, Stubbs embarked on a career as a portrait painter. His early work primarily focused on capturing the likeness of his subjects, but he soon became drawn to the challenge of depicting animals. Inspired by the natural world around him, he began to experiment with painting horses and other creatures.
To enhance his understanding of anatomy and better portray the animals in his paintings, Stubbs enrolled in anatomy classes at York County Hospital. He also conducted independent studies, including dissecting equine corpses to gain a deeper insight into the structure and musculature of horses. This meticulous attention to detail would become a hallmark of his work.
One of Stubbs' most famous paintings is "Whistlejacket," created in 1762. This striking portrait of a rearing horse is a masterpiece of equine art, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing the dynamic movement and form of the animal. Another notable work is "Portrait of a Large Dog" from 1772, which highlights Stubbs' ability to convey the personality and spirit of his animal subjects.
In the same year, Stubbs painted "The Kongouro [Kangaroo] from New Holland," capturing the exotic beauty of a kangaroo brought to England from Australia. This work reflects Stubbs' interest in exotic animals and his ability to bring them to life on canvas.
George Stubbs' paintings are highly regarded and have found permanent homes in prestigious institutions such as the National Gallery, London; the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich; and the Victoria and Albert Museum, among others. His meticulous attention to detail and passion for animals have cemented his reputation as a master of animal portraiture.
Stubbs' influence can be seen in the work of artists such as Franz Marc, who shared his appreciation for animals as subjects. His dedication to his craft and innovative approach to animal painting continue to inspire artists to this day.
Stubbs was in a common-law marriage with Mary Spencer, with whom he had a son named George Townly Stubbs, who would also become an artist. Despite his success as a painter, Stubbs remained humble and dedicated to his work, always striving to push the boundaries of his artistry.
George Stubbs passed away on July 10, 1806, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking animal paintings that continue to captivate audiences around the world. His contributions to the art world have solidified his place as one of the most influential animal painters in history.