Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell (1883-1937) was a Scottish painter known for his vibrant and atmospheric portraits, still lifes, and landscapes. He was one of the prominent members of the Scottish Colourists, a group of four painters who were influenced by French Post-Impressionism and Fauvism.
Born on April 12, 1883, in Edinburgh, Scotland, Cadell studied at the Académie Julian in Paris from 1899 to 1902, where he was exposed to the works of the Impressionists and Post-Impressionists. These artistic movements had a significant impact on his style and use of colour.
Cadell's early works were characterized by loose brushwork and a bright colour palette. He often painted scenes of Edinburgh's New Town, capturing the elegance of the city's architecture and the play of light and shadow. His paintings from this period display a strong sense of design and composition.
During the 1920s, Cadell's style evolved, and he began to emphasize form and structure more explicitly. He simplified his subjects and employed bold, flat areas of colour, showing the influence of artists like Matisse and the Fauvists. He became known for his striking portraits, still lifes, and beach scenes, which were notable for their sense of balance and harmony.
Cadell's work received recognition both in Scotland and internationally. He exhibited widely, including at the Royal Scottish Academy, the Royal Academy in London, and the Venice Biennale. He was also a founding member of the Society of Scottish Artists.
Francis Cadell passed away on December 6, 1937, in Edinburgh. His legacy as a Scottish Colourist continues to be celebrated, and his works are held in various museums and private collections worldwide. His paintings are admired for their vibrant colour schemes, bold compositions, and distinctive portrayal of light and atmosphere.