Rita Angus

Rita Angus was a prominent New Zealand artist known for her contributions to the country's modernist movement, alongside artists like Frances Hodgkins and Toss Woollaston. Her work was heavily influenced by her experiences living in Christchurch and Wellington, as well as her interests in Maori culture and the New Zealand landscape. Angus's artistic style was shaped by her studies at the Canterbury College School of Art and her interactions with fellow artists, including Leo Bensemann and Colin McCahon. Throughout her career, Angus was recognized for her unique perspective and technique, which set her apart from other artists of her time, such as Piet Mondrian and Kazimir Malevich.

● Early Life and Education

Rita Angus was born in Hastings, New Zealand in 1908 and spent her early years in Napier and Wellington. She developed an interest in art at a young age and went on to study at the Canterbury College School of Art in Christchurch, where she was influenced by artists like Paul Cézanne and Vincent van Gogh. During her time at the college, Angus was exposed to various artistic styles, including Cubism and Fauvism, which were popularized by artists such as Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse. Her education also included studies of Maori art and the works of Gordon Walters, which would later influence her own unique style.

● Artistic Career

Angus's artistic career spanned several decades, during which she was associated with various art movements, including Modernism and Regionalism. She was a member of the New Zealand Society of Artists and exhibited her work alongside other notable artists, such as Nora Heysen and Stella Bowen. Angus's career was also marked by her interactions with artists from other countries, including Australia and Europe, where she was influenced by the works of Salvador Dalí and René Magritte. Her experiences living in London and Paris further broadened her artistic perspective, exposing her to the works of Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir.

● Style and Technique

Rita Angus's artistic style was characterized by her use of bold colors and geometric shapes, which were inspired by her studies of Maori art and the New Zealand landscape. Her technique was influenced by artists such as Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele, who were known for their expressive and emotive works. Angus's use of oil painting and watercolor allowed her to experiment with different textures and effects, creating unique and captivating pieces. Her style was also shaped by her interests in Surrealism and Abstract art, which were popularized by artists like Max Ernst and Wassily Kandinsky.

● Major Works

Some of Rita Angus's most notable works include Cass, a portrait of her friend Cass, and Self-Portrait, which showcases her unique style and technique. Her landscapes, such as Central Otago and Mount Cook, demonstrate her ability to capture the beauty and essence of the New Zealand landscape. Angus's still-life paintings, including Still Life with Oranges and Still Life with Flowers, showcase her use of color and composition. Her works are held in the collections of various institutions, including the Te Papa Museum and the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, alongside works by other notable artists, such as McCahon and Woollaston.

● Legacy and Impact

Rita Angus's legacy extends beyond her own artistic contributions, as she played a significant role in shaping the New Zealand art scene. Her unique style and technique have inspired generations of artists, including Sylvia Siddell and Robyn Kahukiwa. Angus's work has been recognized and celebrated through various exhibitions and awards, including the New Zealand Order of Merit and the Arts Foundation of New Zealand Icon Award. Her contributions to New Zealand culture have been acknowledged by institutions such as the New Zealand Arts Council and the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, which have worked to promote and preserve her legacy, alongside that of other notable artists, such as Frances Hodgkins and Toss Woollaston. Today, Angus's work continues to be celebrated and studied, offering insights into the life and experiences of this remarkable New Zealand artist, and her connections to the broader art world, including artists like Georgia O'Keeffe and Frida Kahlo.