Edward Henry Potthast (1857–1927) was an American Impressionist painter best known for his luminous beach scenes and depictions of leisurely outdoor life. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, he studied at the McMicken School of Design and later honed his skills in Munich and Paris, absorbing the techniques of European academic and impressionist art. Returning to the U.S., Potthast initially worked as an illustrator before fully committing to fine art. He became known for capturing joyful moments along the beaches of New York and New England, portraying families, children, and sun-drenched landscapes with a vibrant palette and fluid brushwork. His compositions exude a sense of carefree pleasure, often focusing on natural light, movement, and atmospheric effects. Potthast’s work is considered a key contribution to American Impressionism, combining European influence with distinctly American themes. He exhibited widely, including at the National Academy of Design and the Art Institute of Chicago, gaining a reputation for his cheerful and accessible scenes. Today, his paintings remain popular for their vivid portrayal of early 20th-century beach life, celebrating simple pleasures and the beauty of the coastal environment.