JOHN JAMES AUDUBON
(American 1785-1851)

In his 1838 classic, The Birds of America, John James Audubon captured the spirit of nature in hundreds of watercolors that record in accurate detail the rich variety of bird life in North America. The paintings of 489 species were based on the expeditions Audubon made through the Ohio, Mississippi and Missouri river valleys, and up to the Atlantic seaboard from Florida to Labrador, beginning in 1820.

After a series of failed careers, Audubon made a last attempt at success by combining his artistic interests with his ornithological passions. With little interest in his work in America, Audubon ultimately achieved great success in England where his paintings were received with much acclaim. Within a year, Audubon's watercolors were being engraved and sold in sets for $1,000. After this success, Audubon returned to his family in the United States.

MEMBERSHIPS
National Academy of Design
Linnean Society
Royal Society