The Olive Rush Studio and Art Center is located at 630 Canyon Road. Public events such as painting workshops, tea parties, family art projects, concerts, and other events are ongoing starting Saturday, April 20.
Olive Rush (1873-1966) was an influential figure in the American art scene, particularly renowned for her role in the Arts and Crafts movement and as a forerunner in the muralist wave that swept across the United States in the early 20th century. Her legacy, characterized by a blend of Quaker simplicity and a profound respect for Native American culture, marks her as a unique voice in the annals of American art.
The Los Luceros Historic Site in Alcalde has two frescoes done by Olive Rush when she was staying with resident Mary Cabot Wheelwright.
Early Life and Education
Born on a farm near Fairmount, Indiana, Olive Rush grew up in a Quaker family, which influenced much of her ethos and aesthetics—simplicity, peace, and a deep reverence for nature. Her artistic talents were evident early on, and she pursued formal education at the Corcoran School of Art in Washington, D.C., and later at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts under the tutelage of Thomas Anshutz. The year 1904 marked a significant turn in her career when Rush traveled to Europe to study at the Académie Julian in Paris. This experience broadened her artistic horizons and exposed her to the burgeoning wave of modernism sweeping through European art circles.
Career Development and Artistic Style
Returning to the United States in the early 1900s, Rush initially settled in New York City, where she immersed herself in the thriving art scene. Her early works predominantly featured landscapes and portraits. However, her style began to evolve as she became increasingly involved with the Arts and Crafts movement, emphasizing handcrafted art forms as a reaction against the mass production of the Industrial Revolution.
Olive Rush’s transition to mural painting marked a pivotal phase in her career. Her murals, characterized by soft colors and flowing lines, often depicted themes of nature, harmony, and peaceful coexistence, reflecting her Quaker beliefs. She became one of the first women to achieve significant recognition in the field, paving the way for future generations of female artists.
Influence of Native American Culture
In 1920, Rush moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico, a decision that introduced a new chapter in her artistic journey. Fascinated by the rich cultural tapestry of the Southwest, particularly the lives and traditions of Native American communities, Rush dedicated much of her work during this period to capturing the essence of Native American culture. Her respectful and heartfelt portrayals won her admiration and respect from the Native communities, a rare achievement at a time when many artists objectified Native American subjects as mere exotic figures.
Her home in Santa Fe, a former mission chapel that she converted into her studio, became a hub of artistic and social activity. It was here that Rush not only painted but also hosted gatherings that brought together artists, writers, and local Native Americans, fostering a vibrant cultural exchange that enriched her work further.
Legacy and Recognition
Olive Rush’s contribution to American art extends beyond her paintings and murals. She was a mentor and advocate for the arts, deeply involved in community art projects and education. During the 1930s, she participated in the Public Works of Art Project, a New Deal program designed to provide work for artists during the Great Depression. Her murals from this period, many of which adorn public buildings in New Mexico, are celebrated for their beauty and historical significance.
Despite her achievements, Olive Rush remained modest about her success, always prioritizing her artistic vision over fame. Her work is preserved in various institutions across the United States, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the New Mexico Museum of Art.
Conclusion
Olive Rush was more than just an artist; she was a visionary who blended her artistic pursuits with deep cultural respect and social activism. Her legacy is a testament to the power of art as a medium for social change and cultural preservation. Today, her pioneering spirit continues to inspire artists and art lovers alike, reminding us of the profound impact that thoughtful and compassionate art can have on society.