Robert Henri was an American painter and a leading figure in the Ashcan School, an art movement that focused on depicting everyday life in urban settings. Born in 1865, he emphasized the importance of capturing the essence of modern life and often painted scenes of people in their natural environments. Henri was also a dedicated teacher and mentor, influencing many artists through his teachings. He believed in the power of individual expression and encouraged his students to explore their unique perspectives. His work and philosophy significantly shaped American art in the early 20th century.