Reel Beauty: The Art and Legacy of Mary Orvis Marbury in Fly Fishing
TROUT & BASS FLIES DIGITALLY ENHANCED FROM OUR OWN ORIGINAL 1892 EDITION
Mary Orvis Marbury was an accomplished artist, fly angler, and writer who played a significant role in popularizing the sport of fly fishing in America in the late 1800s.
Her artwork is still celebrated today for its beauty and accuracy in depicting fish and their natural habitats. In this blog, we will explore the life and art of Mary Orvis Marbury and how she helped to shape the sport of fly fishing.
Mary Orvis Marbury was born in 1856 in Manchester, Vermont, into a family that owned and operated the Orvis Company, a renowned fly-fishing and outdoor gear retailer. Her father, Charles F. Orvis, was a skilled angler and businessman who recognized the growing popularity of fly fishing in America and helped to promote it through his company. Mary inherited her father's passion for fishing and art and became an accomplished artist in her own right.
HACKLES DIGITALLY ENHANCED FROM OUR OWN ORIGINAL 1892 EDITION
As a young woman, Mary honed her skills in drawing and painting by attending classes at the Cooper Union Art School in New York City.
She also spent time in Europe studying the works of the Old Masters and refining her techniques. In 1883, she published her first book, "Favorite Flies and Their Histories," which showcased her artwork and provided detailed information on the materials and techniques used in tying flies for fly fishing.
Mary's art was highly sought after by fishermen and collectors alike for its accuracy and attention to detail. She used watercolors to capture the intricate patterns and colors of different species of fish, as well as the natural beauty of rivers, lakes, and streams. Her paintings were featured in numerous publications, including "The American Angler," "Forest and Stream," and "Outing Magazine."
DRAKES DIGITALLY ENHANCED FROM OUR OWN ORIGINAL 1892 EDITION
Mary's contributions to the sport of fly fishing extended beyond her artwork.
She was an active member of the American Angler's Club and the Anglers' Club of New York, where she helped to organize fishing trips and tournaments for members. She also wrote articles and books on fishing techniques, fly tying, and the history of the sport. Her book "Fly-Fishing for Black Bass" is considered a classic in the field and is still widely read today.
Mary's influence on the sport of fly fishing can still be felt today. Her artwork has been reproduced in countless publications and is often used as a reference by contemporary artists and fly tyers. Her books are still considered valuable resources for anglers and are treasured by collectors. The Orvis Company, which is still family-owned and operated, continues to be a leading retailer of fly-fishing gear and has expanded its offerings to include outdoor apparel, home goods, and dog accessories.
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