A Life in Landscape and Watercolour
Born in the village of Hutton, United Kingdom, John Blair was a Scottish painter who became known predominantly for his watercolour landscapes. After moving to Edinburgh to study, he spent much of his life there, capturing the essence of the surroundings. His work often focused on urban settings as well as the castles, sea, and lochs of the Borders. Beyond these landscapes, Blair also produced paintings of figures and still lifes.
His talent was recognized early in his career through various accolades. In 1872, he was awarded both a gold and a silver medal at the Edinburgh Schools of Arts for young men, specifically for a shaded study of an antique figure and a study in watercolour. His artistic reach extended beyond traditional canvases, as his paintings were reproduced in the form of illustrations, book endpapers, and picture postcards, including over 80 works for Tuck's Post Cards.
Exhibitions and Legacy
Blair was a frequent contributor to the Royal Scottish Academy, exhibiting approximately 83 paintings in their Annual Exhibitions between 1870 and 1920. His work was also presented at several other notable venues, including:
As a member of the Society of Scottish Artists, his reputation was established through his original works, illustrations, and lithographs. His later years were marked by failing health, which prevented him from using the brush after 1920. He passed away in Edinburgh.
