Money-Back Guarantee · 100 days Free Worldwide Delivery
644,672artworks 52,888artists 5,406museums 32languages

David Courlander

1866 - 1961

Key facts

  • Lifespan: 95 years
  • Also known as:
    • Grandpa Moses
    • Grandpa Courlander Of Michigan
  • Typical colors: putty
  • Copyright status: Under copyright
  • Art period: 19th Century
  • Died: 1961
  • Born: 1866, Bay City, United States

A Late Awakening in Art

David Courlander was a self-taught artist who began his painting career at the age of 85. Born in Bay City, United States, he spent much of his life working in various roles, including as a window dresser in cities like Kansas City and as a tailor in Indianapolis. After moving to Detroit and later living on a farm near Romeo, Michigan, he turned to painting in 1952. He continued this pursuit until shortly before his death in 1961.

His work, which includes both oils and watercolors, often captures scenes of everyday American life. His subject matter was diverse, ranging from:

Recognition and Legacy

Courlander's talent was recognized through various exhibitions, including a one-man show at the Associated American Artists gallery in New York in 1953. His paintings have been featured in several exhibitions, such as the Smithsonian Institution's national touring exhibition of American Primitive Artists in 1958.

His artistic legacy is preserved in several notable institutions. His works are held in the following collections:

Questions & Answers

Can I browse David Courlander's works by color palette?

The By Palettes page groups David Courlander's artworks by their color palettes.

What are the birthplace and birth year of David Courlander?

David Courlander was born in Bay City in 1866.

Where are David Courlander's artworks grouped by keywords?

The By Keywords page of David Courlander groups the artist's artworks by their keywords.

Can I explore David Courlander's works by color spectrum?

The Spectral Index of David Courlander is a page that organizes the artist's artworks by their colors.

Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
At what age did David Courlander begin painting?
Question 2:
In which city was David Courlander born?
Question 3:
Which institution's permanent collection holds several of his paintings?
Question 4:
What was Courlander's occupation before he began painting?
Question 5:
Which famous folk artist was Courlander compared to by Reeves Lewenthal?