William M. Chase, the painter of precept.
Questions about the artist. Who was the first American artist of note? Where was he born? Of what faith were his parents? Relate the circumstances which led to Benjamin West’s first drawing, and the result. How old was he at that time? How did he secure his first paints? his brushes? What gift did his uncle send him? What became of Benjamin the day this gift was received? What did his mother say? Where did he go to study art? In what way did he change art in England? What school did he establish? Name five other American artists, and tell why they are famous.
To the Teacher: Several pupils may prepare the subject-matter as suggested here, then tell it to the class. Later, topics may be written upon the blackboard and used as suggestive subjects for short compositions in English.
1. Relate an incident in the life of Benjamin West that persuaded his parents he would be an artist.
2. Explain some of the difficulties he had to overcome in order to paint.
3. What preparation did he make to become an artist?
4. In what ways was he of special benefit to the world of art?
5. Tell something of the progress of American painting from that time to this.
