Maria Richards Oakey Dewing was a prominent American painter, known for her exquisite depiction of flowers and her contributions to the art world. Born in New York in 1845, she was married to the artist Thomas Dewing and was a founding member of the Art Students League of New York. Her work was inspired by John La Farge, a renowned artist and her love of gardening.
Early Life and Education
Maria Oakey Dewing began her artistic journey at the age of 17, attending the
Cooper Union School of Design in 1866. She studied under prominent artists such as William Rimmer, Edwin Forbes, Robert Swain Gifford, and George Edmund Butler. Her education also included classes with Helena de Kay, a fellow artist and friend. In 1871, she joined the
Antique School of National Academy of Fine Arts, where she took painting lessons from
John La Farge. La Farge's Japanese aesthetics greatly influenced her work, and she went on to establish the
Art Students League of New York in 1875.
Career and Artistic Style
Maria Oakey Dewing's artistic style was characterized by her use of broad brushstrokes and rich, glowing colors. Her paintings were highly acclaimed, with art critic Edwin Bye describing them as "absolutely unique." Her most notable works include
Garden in May,
Bed of Poppies, and
Iris at Dawn. These paintings showcase her poetic sensibility and thorough knowledge of botany, which was nourished by her own gardening experiences.
Key aspects of Maria Oakey Dewing's career:
- Exhibited her work at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, Illinois and at the 1901 Pan-American Exposition
- Collaborated with her husband Thomas Dewing on several paintings, including Hymen
- Created embroidered applique pieces that were like tapestries in the early 1880s
For more information about Maria Oakey Dewing's life and work, visit
Art Students League of New York or
John La Farge. Her paintings can be found in various museums and collections, including the
Kate Freeman Clark Art Gallery, which is home to an impressive collection of Impressionist works.