Mark Tobey

American, 1890 - 1976

BiographyPart of the Northwest Tradition school of art in the 1930's // Widely recognized throughout the United States and Europe, Tobey is the most noted among the "mystical painters of the Northwest." Born in Centerville, Wisconsin, in 1890, he was senior in age and experience and had a strong influence on the others. Friend and mentor, Tobey shared their interest in philosophy and Eastern religions. Tobey had become a member of the Bahai World Faith in 1918, and in 1934 had spent a month in a monastery while visiting China and Japan. His noted "white writing" style of painting evolved from his study of Asian calligraphy during this visit.

He taught and lived in Seattle for many years and forged a relationship with people in Victoria such as Emily Carr and later Colin Graham of the AGGV.
image rights maintained by Tobey Estate/ Seatle Art Museum

Person TypeIndividual