David Courlander

1866 - 1961

Essentials

  • Born: 1866, Bay City, United States
  • Top 3 works:
    • Lodge 51
    • Hunters Outfoxed
    • Hay Ride
  • Museums on this site: Smithsonian American Art Museum
  • Nationality: United States
  • Art period: 19th Century
  • Also known as:
    • Grandpa Moses
    • Grandpa Courlander Of Michigan
  • Died: 1961

A Late Awakening in Art

David Courlander was a self-taught artist who began his painting career at the age of 85. Born in Bay City, United States, he spent much of his life working in various roles, including as a window dresser in cities like Kansas City and as a tailor in Indianapolis. After moving to Detroit and later living on a farm near Romeo, Michigan, he turned to painting in 1952. He continued this pursuit until shortly before his death in 1961.

His work, which includes both oils and watercolors, often captures scenes of everyday American life. His subject matter was diverse, ranging from:

Recognition and Legacy

Courlander's talent was recognized through various exhibitions, including a one-man show at the Associated American Artists gallery in New York in 1953. His paintings have been featured in several exhibitions, such as the Smithsonian Institution's national touring exhibition of American Primitive Artists in 1958.

His artistic legacy is preserved in several notable institutions. His works are held in the following collections:

Questions & Answers

What are the birth city and country of David Courlander?

David Courlander was born in Bay City, in United States.

Where are David Courlander's artworks grouped by keywords?

The By Keywords page of David Courlander groups the artist's artworks by their keywords.

Where can I see David Courlander's artworks in chronological order?

David Courlander's artworks can be seen in chronological order on the artist's Artwork Timeline page.

What other names is David Courlander known by?

David Courlander appears under the alternate names Grandpa Moses, Grandpa Courlander Of Michigan.

Test your eye

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
At what age did David Courlander begin painting?
Question 2:
In which city was David Courlander born?
Question 3:
Which institution's permanent collection holds several of his paintings?
Question 4:
What was Courlander's occupation before he began painting?
Question 5:
Which famous folk artist was Courlander compared to by Reeves Lewenthal?