Frank Herbert Mason (1921–2009) was an influential American painter and educator known for his dedication to classical techniques. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Mason moved to New York to study at the Art Students League under Frank Vincent DuMond, a master of traditional academic painting. Mason’s work reflected a profound respect for the Old Masters, especially the techniques of the Baroque and Renaissance periods, which emphasized dramatic light, color, and form.
Mason’s paintings often depicted religious and historical themes, as well as portraits and landscapes, showcasing his skill in chiaroscuro and his meticulous attention to detail. His commitment to preserving classical methods led him to become a vocal advocate against modernist trends in art, which he saw as neglecting traditional craftsmanship.
Mason taught at the Art Students League for over fifty years, inspiring generations of artists to embrace classical realism. His legacy is also tied to his conservation efforts, notably his campaign to prevent over-cleaning of Michelangelo's frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. His passion for preserving artistic heritage, both in practice and in advocacy, earned him widespread respect. Today, Mason’s work can be found in various private and public collections, celebrating his mastery of form and his deep reverence for art history.