Evariste Carpentier was born a farmer's son in Kuurne, West Flanders in 1845. His strong artistic aptitude manifested itself at an early age while on the farm. He would draw incessantly, taking his inspiration from the busy rural life around him. After falling in love with the exhibited paintings during a visit to the museum of Kortrijk, he knew immediately that he wanted to be a painter. His parents, though surprised by his artistic aspirations, were very supportive and encouraged him by enrolling him in a painting course at the Academy of Kortrijk, directed by Henri De Pratere.

In 1864, he enrolled in the Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp where he quickly established himself at the head of the class, thereby e...