SANTA FE, NM.- The Georgia OKeeffe Museum announced the newest addition to its permanent collection, Georgia OKeeffes 1928 oil painting, Ritz Tower . Created during her rise to art world stardom, the work captures the iconic building at night. The slender painting is one of OKeeffes rare depictions of skyscrapers in New York City.
This is a painting as dazzling as the modern city itself, says Ariel Plotek, Curator of Fine Art for the OKeeffe Museum. Throughout the 1920s, Georgia OKeeffe lived in New York with her husband, photographer and art impresario Alfred Stieglitz. The couple was at the center of the citys cultural scene, with OKeeffes exhibitions receiving critical acclaim. Some of her peers initially discouraged her from painting urban subjects. Later in life, OKeeffe recalled, The men decided they didnt want me to paint New York . . . They told me to leave New York to the men. I was furious! One of the most striking examples of her rebuttals is Ritz Tower.
It is a dynamic, glamourous portrayal, says Plotek. OKeeffe effectively rendered the spirit of the city by making it a night scene teeming with energy. She used the bright punches of electric light, the soaring architecture, and the glow of the moon to great effect.
The Museum acquired the painting through the Owings Gallery in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Were thrilled to have this important painting at the OKeeffe, says Plotek. It helps us tell a critical part of OKeeffes story: art darling of the Roaring Twenties. We know our visitors will love Ritz Tower as much as we do.
Ritz Tower will be on view in the Museums galleries, beginning on March 1, 2019.