Joseph Margulies (American, 1896-1984)

Born in Vienna, Joseph Margulies became a distinguished portrait and landscape painter as a resident of New York City. He received his formal training at the National Academy of Design, Cooper Union, as well as the Art Students League and continued his studies abroad in Paris, Vienna and Rome.

He received many commissions for his acclaimed portraits but still made time to paint scenes of Central Park, Riverside Drive and other landmarks of New York City. He was also active with the Rockport Art Association of Cape Ann and maintained a studio in Gloucester where he did marine and harbor views. Margulies was inspired by, "the stark drama of the harbor. The years in Gloucester were a pivotal time for Margulies, made famous in compelling works exploding with bright Fauvist colors, executed in energetic and vigorous brushstrokes."

Margulies is also noted for etchings, aquatints and watercolors. He remained staunchly independent from abstract styles as they were the new fashion.