Wayman Adams: A Study in Portraiture
February 9th – July 2nd, 2021
RAM is pleased to present this exhibit of works from the RAM Permanent Collection by Wayman Adams in the Dr. Eileen Cravens and Dr. Dana Reihman Gallery.
Wayman Elbridge Adams (September 23, 1883 – 1959) was an American Painter who was born in Muncie, Indiana, that demonstrated a keen interest in drawing and painting throughout his early years. Adams later received formal instruction in the arts at the Herron School of Art of Indianapolis. Thereafter, he continued his studies under the guidance of master painter William Merritt Chase in Florence. Adams continued to thrive as an artist, later continuing his travels while advancing his skills as an oil painter focusing on figures, genre, murals and portraits.
During his career, Adams lived and worked in New York, as well as in California, becoming well known throughout artistic circles across the United States for his rapid approach to painting stylized portraits of very prominent persons, including authors, painters and political leaders. Adams approach to portraiture earned him a nickname of “lightning” among artists and educators, as his portraits were often completed in one sitting.
Adams’ career flourished, especially after completing the portrait of Booth Tarkington. This study brought Adams national recognition as a gifted professional portraiture artist. Notwithstanding the attention to portraits of important figures from all walks of life, Adams lesser known studies revolving around ethnicity constituted one of the most intriguing aspects of his work.
Also noteworthy, Adams maintained a friendly relationship with famous American Impressionist painter, Francis Focer Brown, who also studied at the Herron School of Art. Adams later completed a colorful portrait of Francis Brown that ultimately became very well known among educational circles. He was also great friends with American Impressionist Johann Berthelsen, with whom he shared a double marriage!
Thanks to exhibit sponsor:
JAMES R. ROSS FINE ART
