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Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Art Nouveau Designer and Architect

By Jackie Craven, About.com

Charles Rennie Mackintosh (1868-1928)

Charles Rennie Mackintosh (1868-1928)

Photo © T & R Annan & Sons Ltd., courtesy of the Charles Rennie Mackintosh Society

Born:

June 7, 1868 in the Townhead area of Glasgow, Scotland

Died:

December 10, 1928 in London, England

Education:

  • Glasgow School of Art
  • Toured Italy under a traveling scholarship

Early Training:

  • Apprenticeship with John Hutchinson
  • Draughtsman for Honeyman & Keppie

Creative Collaborations:

During his time at the Glasgow School of Art, Mackintosh was part of "The Four," a group of designers that included the sisters Margaret and Frances MacDonald and follow artist Herbert McNair.

"The Four" exhibited posters, graphic designs, and furniture in Great Britain and Europe. Along with other artists and designers, they developed the Glasgow Style, known for strong lines and graceful, symbolic shapes.

Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Margaret MacDonald married, forming a creative partnership that lasted their lifetimes.

Selected Buildings:

Other Works:

Charles Rennie Mackintosh is famous for unique furniture designs such as the The Hill House Chair. Charles Rennie Mackintosh also designed stained glass, textiles, and metalwork. Later in his career, Charles Rennie Mackintosh painted water colors.

Important Styles:

About Charles Rennie Mackintosh:

Charles Rennie Mackintosh was one of eleven children, and he suffered from a limp and other health problems. Encouraged to spend time in the country, he developed a love of nature that later found expression in his Art Nouveau designs.

With his wife, Margaret MacDonald, Charles Rennie Mackintosh pioneered modern design in Scotland, and their Art Nouveau works helped lay the foundation for the Arts & Crafts movement in Britain.

Buildings designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh are praised for their elegant detailing and skillful use of light and space.

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