Edgar Alwin Payne

Edgar Alwin Payne (1883–1947) was an American painter celebrated for his vibrant landscapes of the American West, particularly the Sierra Nevada, as well as harbors, coastal scenes, and European mountain vistas. Known for his bold brushwork, rich color harmonies, and ability to capture the drama of light and atmosphere, Payne became one of the foremost Impressionist landscape painters of his era. His work often featured rugged peaks, expansive skies, and the dynamic interplay of sunlight and shadow, evoking both grandeur and intimacy. Born in Washburn, Missouri, Payne was largely self-taught, briefly attending the School of the Art Institute of Chicago before embarking on extensive travels in the U.S. and abroad. In 1912, he married artist Elsie Palmer, and together they painted and exhibited widely. Payne settled in Southern California, where he remained an influential figure in the regional art community until his death in 1947.