In this illustrated lecture, Mr. Stern will discuss the Life and Art of William Wendt (1865 – 1946) one of California’s most important artists. German-born William Wendt left Germany and came to Chicago in 1880. In 1906, he married sculptor Julia Bracken (1869-1942) and the two came to live in Los Angeles. He quickly became a leading member in the Los Angeles art community and was a founding member of the California Art Club in 1909, serving as president from 1911 to 1914, and again from 1917 to 1918.

In 1918, he and Julia moved to Laguna Beach. He became a founding member of the Laguna Beach Art Association. Although somewhat shy and reclusive, he was Laguna’s most important resident artist. To Wendt, nature was a divine manifestation and he viewed himself as nature’s faithful interpreter. Only rarely did he include people or animals in his landscapes.

The lecture will show approximately 100 slides with time afterwards for questions.

John Moran Auctioneers & Appraisers are the exclusive auctioneer / appraiser business for the 2023 John Stern Presents Lectures.

William Wendt, Laguna Coast, Oil on canvas, 1930, Gift of Mr. & Mrs. Thomas B. Stiles II, Laguna Art Museum Permanent Collection