JOHN HAFEN

Born March 22, 1856 in Switzerland. Emigrated to Salt Lake City in 1862. Desired to become an artist from the time he was eight years old and studied art seriously when he was eleven. Family settled in central Utah and were twice driven from their home by Indians. They finally settled in Tooele and then moved to Salt Lake City. He studied under Dr. Maeser, Weggeland, and Ottinger. Sold photos to support family and sent by LDS Church to Paris for first formal training. Studied at Acdemie Julian and was a follower of Corot who introduced Hafen to oil colors. He lived and worked in Paris one year and then traveled throughout Europe visiting galleries. Returned home and won many awards for his paintings. Traveled widely in the U.S. and moved to Indianapolis where a wealth industrialist became his patron. Painted portraits of many high government and business officials. Died June 3, 1920.