Early life Anthony Heinsbergen was born on December 13, 1894 in the
Netherlands. At age 10, he worked as an apprentice to a restoration painter, his talent enough that he was paid half the amount an apprentice typically had to pay to apprentice. Heinsbergen emigrated with his father to the United States in 1906. They settled in
Los Angeles, where he continued as an apprentice at the
Parker Decorating Company. Heinsbergen was also one of the first students to take formal training from
Nelbert Chouinard at her
Chouinard Art Institute.
Career At Parker Decorating Company, Heinsbergen was promoted to foreman by age 15 and principal foreman by 18. Heinsbergen's earliest commissions were numerous murals around Los Angeles. These murals brought him to the attention of
Alexander Pantages, who in 1920 or 1924 commissioned him to design and paint the interiors of 22 of his theaters. Additionally, in 1925 Heinsbergen secured work on the
Los Angeles Elks Lodge by significantly underbidding in order to obtain a high-profile commission. These works earned him considerable recognition, and following them, he did not have to solicit work for 38 years. In 1922, Heinsbergen founded the Heinsbergen Decorating Company, which at its peak employed more than 180 decorative painters. Heinsbergen and his employees completed approximately 750 projects across North America, including 12 theaters for
United Artists, 38 for the Pantages circuit, and 20 branches for
California Bank. His company also worked on civic buildings, hotels, private homes, cathedrals, synagogues, and more, but it was best known for its theaters. He often worked with architects
Curlett and Beelman, who in return designed
Heinsbergen's offices and studio in 1928. Heinsbergen transitioned to interior restorations toward the end of his career and was still working on high profile commissions at the age of 82. After his death, his son took over management of his company.
Personal life and death Heinsbergen married Nedith K. Mclean, who herself was born on May 22, 1900 in
Canada. They had two children together, a son named Anthony and daughter named Nedith. They also employed a servant in their home. Heinsbergen designed his own home on the south slope of the
Santa Monica Mountains in
Pacific Palisades. He was also a prolific painter, which he did mostly outdoors and for relaxation. Heinsbergen died in
Los Angeles County on June 14, 1981. ==Style and subjects==