A Brilliant Bit of Color: The Work of Walter Launt Palmer

The Albany Institute of History & Art holds the largest public collection of works by artist Walter Launt Palmer (1854–1932), son of Albany sculptor Erastus Dow Palmer. It includes oil and watercolor paintings, pastels, pencil drawings, a rare painted ceramic cup, as well as letters and photographs. A new exhibition at the Albany Institute offers a visual overview of Palmer’s life, travels, and artistic output.

The exhibition includes works from all three of Palmer’s major series: the early interior views where Palmer lavished attention on the textiles, ceramics, furniture, and wall decorations that filled well-furnished homes; his Venetian scenes that capture the luxuriant colors of the sea, sky, and buildings of this island city; and the snow scenes that continue to enchant viewers with their masterful tonal subtleties. Drawings, photographs, and ceramics accompany the exhibition.