Sloan, John (1871-1951), was an American artist. In 1907, Sloan and other artists formed an informal association of painters called The Eight (later called the Ashcan School by critics). In his paintings, etchings, and illustrations, Sloan honestly and sympathetically portrayed scenes taken from everyday life. In this manner, he exemplified the artistic philosophy of The Eight.
Sloan was born on Aug. 2, 1871, in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania. He first worked as an illustrator for Philadelphia newspapers. He never traveled abroad, but Henri introduced him to the works of the Europeans Frans Hals, Édouard Manet, and Diego Velazquez. These painters influenced Sloan’s style. His favorite subjects included city streets, tenements, cafes, and barrooms.
