C.E. Chambers Art

Charles Edward Chambers (Born 1883) was born in Ottawa, Iowa. He illustrated stories in most of the leading magazines and publications. He served leading authors such as Buck Pearl, Bromfield Louis, Baldwin Faith, and Maugham W. Somerset. He worked for many years under special contract for Cosmopolitan magazine. Among his numerous awards was the 2nd Altman Prize in 1931at the National Academy of Design Exhibition. This award was for his portrait of fellow-illustrator and watercolorist, Alonzo John Williams. Chambers was a classical painter representative of the old school. His style was above reproach; his colors were harmonious, compositions compelling, and anatomies perfect. His pieces of art were extremely proficient, discernible by subtlety of color and value. For the best possible reproduction, he learned to adapt his method of painting early and to insure fidelity of printing. The artist divided his time almost equally between advertising and editorial assignments. He believed that truth in art, just like in literature, can be portrayed deeply and more eloquently by depicting a true impression rather than stating all the visual facts. Today framed Charles Edward Chambers art hang on many wall around the world. Chambers was a skillful illustrator, having many of his works appearing in many publications and magazines. Chambers also did quite a number of distinctive illustrations for 24-sheet outdoor posters, particularly for Palmolive Soap and Chesterfield, which set very high standards in that industry. Chambers’ works were produced in colorful detail that reflected the emotional nature of his subjects. Fanny Munsell was one of his important teachers and she later became his wife.