Of all the states between the East and West coasts, It was was Ohio that developed the greatest and most continuous artistic tradition. Even though Chicago had become the artistic center of the American heartland by the end of the nineteenth century and in some ways rivaled the Eastern metropolises, Ohio’s achievements had greater longevity, and the work of Ohio artists had, on the whole, a greater national impact. It is out of this tradition that David Walkley started painting.

Born in Rome, Ohio in 1849, but moving to Rock Creek, Ohio as a child his early recollections were of the beautiful scenery around his new city. He painted views of the Ohio landscape and exhibited at the National Academy of Design, 1911-1912, and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art as early as 1898.

He studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art, 1867-1871; Went to Europe and studied at the Academy Julian, with Boulanger and Lefebvre, 1878; Academy Moster, 1878; Art Students League in New York City with William Merritt Chase, 1885. Among the first artist residents at Mystic, Conn., ca. 1902 ca. 1915.

Member:
Salmagundi Club, 1903
Society of American Artist

Exhibited:
National Academy of Design, 1911-1912
Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art, 1898
Chicago Art Association, 1897
Colombian Expo, Chicago, 1893
Art Institute of Chicago
Corcoran Gallery of Art Museum

Teaching Positions:
Pittsburgh School of  Design, (1879 84)
Art Students League, (late 1880s)