Ponti Art Gallery is interested in buying and selling works
of art by this artist.
Louis Ritman Biography
Louis Ritman, an American Impressionist painter, was born in 1889 in Kamenets-Podolski, a small city near Odessa in southwest Russia, now Ukraine. His early life was marked by a significant move when his family relocated to Chicago while he was still a child. This move would set the stage for Ritman's future in the arts, as he began his artistic education in the vibrant cultural environment of Chicago.
Ritman's artistic journey commenced at the Art Institute of Chicago, where he was exposed to a broad spectrum of artistic styles and techniques. His education continued at the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia, institutions that played a crucial role in shaping his early artistic vision. Ritman's talent was undeniable, and he quickly began to receive commissions for portraits, signaling the start of a promising career.
In 1909, seeking to further his education and immerse himself in the European art scene, Ritman moved to Paris. There, he enrolled at the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts, one of the most influential art schools in France. This period was crucial for Ritman, as it exposed him to the Impressionist movement, which would greatly influence his work. In 1911, he achieved a significant milestone by exhibiting two paintings at the Paris Salon, a testament to his growing recognition in the art world.
Ritman's connection to the Impressionist movement deepened in 1910 when he made his first visit to the Giverny colony of Impressionists, alongside fellow American artist Richard Miller. Giverny, known for its association with Claude Monet, became a source of inspiration for Ritman. He spent many summers there, painting the lush landscapes and vibrant scenes that would come to define his Impressionist style. During these years, Ritman also maintained a winter painting studio in Paris and made frequent visits to the United States, showcasing his work in various prominent national and international venues.
Ritman's work received considerable acclaim, and he won several major prizes for his Impressionist artworks. His success in Europe was mirrored in the United States, where his paintings were celebrated for their bright colors, light-filled atmosphere, and lively brushstrokes characteristic of the Impressionist style. In 1929, Ritman decided to move back to Chicago, though he continued to visit France. He began a long career as a teacher of figure and portrait painting, sharing his knowledge and passion for art with the next generation.
In his later years, Ritman's style evolved, incorporating more realistic depictions of women, still life paintings, and landscapes. He replaced the cheerful temperament of his earlier Impressionist works with stronger colors, solidly rendered forms, and a somber mood. Despite these changes, Ritman's work continued to be celebrated for its beauty and technical skill.
Ritman's contributions to the American Impressionist movement were significant. He was a prominent member of the second generation of American Impressionists, and his work was featured in numerous group exhibitions across the United States, including the Art Institute of Chicago and the Century of Progress World’s Fair in Chicago. His paintings were also displayed in prestigious galleries and museums, both in the United States and abroad, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in American art.
Louis Ritman's legacy is that of a master Impressionist, whose work captured the beauty and light of the world around him. His paintings, characterized by their vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, continue to be admired and celebrated by art enthusiasts and collectors alike. Ritman passed away in 1963, but his contributions to the world of art remain timeless, a testament to his talent, vision, and enduring influence on the American Impressionist movement.
Louis Ritman Quotes and Sales
of Works
Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the
artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and
evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current
market values.
If you are interested in BUYING or SELLING works by the
artist, contact us immediately.
If you wish to sell or receive an evaluation of the
works:
Send us a frontal photo of the painting, one of the back,
and one of the signature. Also, indicate the dimensions of
the work. Inform us about the purchase origin of the work
and any kind of available documentation (purchase
receipts, certificates of authenticity, publications). One
of our operators will respond to you on the same day. We
guarantee maximum confidentiality and extreme
professionalism.
If you wish to purchase works by the painter: Contact us
and let us know your request. We will inform you about the
available works. We also offer the possibility to
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