Who founded the Hudson River School?

The Hudson River School, noted for its role in establishing a distinctly American style of landscape painting in the 19th century, was founded by Thomas Cole. He is recognized for his deep appreciation of nature and the American landscape, which he translated into stunning works of art that often showcased the beauty of the Hudson River Valley and its surrounding areas. Cole's approach emphasized themes of nature's majesty, the interplay of light, and the power of the American wilderness.

Through his leadership and influential work, Thomas Cole inspired a generation of artists who would follow, contributing to the formation of the Hudson River School as a collective of painters who shared similar artistic values and themes. The movement gained popularity in the mid-19th century and is associated with the broader context of Romanticism, where the sublime qualities of nature were celebrated. This established Cole not only as a pivotal figure in American art but also as a foundational leader of the Hudson River School, shaping its identity and direction.