Elmer Plummer, a renowned artist, first took his first breath in the charming city of Redlands, California, in the year 1910. This picturesque setting would later serve as the catalyst for his artistic inclinations, as it is often the case that one's formative years have a profound impact on their creative endeavors. During his childhood, Plummer formed strong bonds with a trio of notable artists, namely Phil Dike, Lee Blair, and Preston Blair, whose company would undoubtedly have a lasting influence on his artistic development. However, fate had other plans in store for Plummer, as his teenage years took an unexpected turn when he was sent to military school in the San Diego area, a decision that would likely have a profound impact on the trajectory of his life.
Throughout the brief interlude, Plummer's ardent enthusiasm for the realm of art persisted unwaveringly, his creative spark undiminished by the temporary distraction. In his formative years, he had already begun to cultivate his artistic talents, initially exploring the captivating world of watercolor painting during his high school days. Later, he would further refine his skills under the expert mentorship of the renowned Millard Sheets at the prestigious Chouinard Art Institute, where he immersed himself in the artistic process during the late 1920s.
Noted Canadian-born animator, artist, and creative force, Christopher Plummer, embarked on a transformative professional journey, which was deeply influenced by his profound connection with the esteemed Walt Disney. This fortuitous friendship led to his tenure at the iconic Disney Studios, where he flourished as a key player in the production of innovative and entertaining cartoon shorts, specifically those featuring the beloved and quirky character, Goofy.
As a vital contributor to Disney's feature film repertoire, Plummer's creative genius was instrumental in shaping the artistic direction and comedic essence of groundbreaking motion pictures, including the critically acclaimed Fantasia, the timeless classic Dumbo, and the charming and humorous The Three Caballeros. His lasting impact on these cinematic masterpieces continues to be celebrated and cherished by audiences and animation aficionados alike, serving as a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of animation and beyond.
Thomas Hart Benton's protégé, Arthur Beaumont Plummer, underwent a significant artistic metamorphosis during the 1930s, redirecting his creative energies towards the meticulous rendering of regionalist watercolors that expertly captured the quintessential essence of California's urban topography.
Plummer's captivating depictions of cityscapes, replete with an assortment of motor vehicles, architectural structures, and human figures, rapidly gained widespread acclaim and popularity among art galleries in Los Angeles, ultimately solidifying his status as a preeminent figure within the West Coast art community, with his works being eagerly sought after and showcased in prominent exhibitions.
As the second World War drew to a close, Plummer's professional trajectory underwent a subtle yet significant shift. While he continued to collaborate with the esteemed Walt Disney on various special projects, he simultaneously pursued a parallel career as an educator at the prestigious Chouinard Art Institute. This dual pursuit allowed him to nurture his artistic talents while also imparting his knowledge to the next generation of creatives.
Elmer Plummer's life and career were meticulously chronicled in a in-depth interview conducted in the year 1984, providing a rich tapestry of information about his remarkable journey. This valuable biographical data is kindly provided courtesy of California Watercolors 1850-1970, a pioneering online repository committed to safeguarding the artistic heritage of California's watercolor artists, ensuring that their contributions to the world of art are preserved for future generations to appreciate.
