Artist: Allan Ramsay
1762
This is painting of King George the Third. I did not paint this piece but since it had great quality and presented the king in a very good way, I decided to show this on my blog. The man who created this was Allan Ramsay. His majesty King George III, was the ruler of Great Britain and I was able to meet him in person. Over time we continuously talked to each other and by his own hand, the king made me his own historical painter. He became almost like a partner of mine and together we often discussed about supporting the visual arts in England. He supported my work and even offered me knighthood. I declined his offer because at the time I thought it was best to present myself in the same way. It was still a great honor and is an incredible thing to be offered.
1767
Raphael West and Benjamin West Jr., Sons of the Artist &
Mrs. Benjamin West and Her Son Raphael
A great joy comes to me when I see my family. My beautiful wife and my first darling little son Raphael. Painting them was one of the highlights of my work. They were the joys of my life and it only added as my second son was brought into my wife’s life and mine. He took my own name Benjamin. Time seemed to fly by too quickly however. In no time my sons had grown so much. I could not pass the opportunity to paint them together in their older age. They were such handsome young gentlemen. I was proud to have children such as them.
Royal Academy of Arts
1768
The Royal Academy of Arts is a school dedicated fully towards the visual arts. It’s a private school that funds for itself and its students. The school never receives any money from the crown or government nowadays. However King George III founded the school in 1768. He was interested in better supporting the arts in London. In the same year that it had opened, the King placed myself to be a charter member for the school. With this new placement I was able to teach students the proper techniques and skills for painting. The school was always open for students from many different backgrounds. I never forgot my American background and I gladly encouraged students from America to come overseas. Most often did to expand and grow in their passion for the arts.
