The Pasadena Museum of Contemporary Art’s art catalog features the captivating California Colors: Hanson Puthuff exhibition. The special event marks the first museum exhibition dedicated solely to the remarkable work of Hanson Puthuff (1875-1972), an esteemed American Impressionist renowned for his depictions of the California landscape. PMCA curates the exhibition and offers a glimpse into Puthuff’s masterpieces from private Southern California collections, highlighting his profound artistic legacy.

Born on August 21, 1875, in Waverly, Missouri, Hanson Duvall Puthuff honed his craft at the University Art School in Denver and the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts. Settling in Los Angeles in 1903, Puthuff initially pursued commercial art before establishing himself as a celebrated plein air painter, capturing the warmth and beauty of Southern California’s scenery.

Throughout his career, Puthuff was affiliated with esteemed organizations such as the California Art Club, Laguna Beach Art Association, Palette and Chisel Club (Chicago), and the Salmagundi Club (New York), earning prestigious accolades including First Prize at the Laguna Beach Art Association and Gold Medals at various exhibitions. His journey came to a close in Corona del Mar, California, on May 12, 1972, leaving behind a rich artistic legacy cherished by admirers worldwide.