Julian Onderdonk and the Texan Landscape

Every Texan knows, there is something special about Texas landscapes. What many may not know is how important Julian Onderdonk (1882–1922) was to Texas art and to the depictions of Texas landscapes.

“Julian Onderdonk’s work still influences the way visitors revere—and artists paint—the Texas landscape,” said William Keyse Rudolph, PhD. the Marie and Hugh Halff Curator of American Art and Mellon Chief Curator. “It is exciting to share these works—many from private collections—with our visitors.”

The San Antonio native and American impressionist is best known for his signature bluebonnets and of the Texas countryside; however, he spent his formative years training in New York under American artist William Merritt Chase (a fine example of Chase’s work is represented in the Museum’s collection, Mrs. Chase and Child, circa 1889). It is only after returning to Texas in 1909, that Onderdonk portrayed the distinctive surroundings of his state at different times of day and became admired by collectors.

Julian Onderdonk and the Texan Landscape presents a select group of more than 25 Onderdonk’s paintings, from views of the Long Island landscape to sweeping impressions of the iconic Texas bluebonnet, bringing Texas history to light.