Alice Ravenel Huger Smith

Place: Charleston

Born: 1876

Death: 1958

Biography:

Alice Ravenel Huger Smith was a prominent American painter and printmaker, born on July 14, 1876, in Charleston, South Carolina. She was one of the leading figures in the so-called Charleston Renaissance, a cultural movement that sought to revive the city's artistic heritage. Smith's work is characterized by its delicate use of color and attention to detail, and she is best known for her watercolors of the city's streets, gardens, and architecture.

Early Life and Training

Smith was born into one of Charleston's most prominent families and received some basic training at the Carolina Art Association. However, she remained largely self-taught throughout her life. She began her career as a portraitist, copying old family images and painting friends and relations. Smith also painted fans and dance cards, showcasing her versatility as an artist.

Artistic Style and Technique

Smith's artistic style is evident in her use of watercolors, which she preferred over other mediums. Her sense of color was exceptional, and she was able to capture the essence of Charleston's architecture and landscapes with ease. Smith's work can be found in various museums, including the Gibbes Museum of Art in Charleston, which features some of her most notable pieces.

Notable Works and Legacy

Some of Smith's notable works include A Rice Flat in One of the Canals from the series A Carolina Rice Plantation of the Fifties, which is part of a series of thirty original watercolors she produced for a book. Her work has been exhibited in museums and galleries throughout the United States, and she has been the subject of numerous books and articles. Smith's legacy as a leading figure in the Charleston Renaissance continues to be celebrated, with her work remaining an important part of American art history.

• Visit Alice Ravenel Huger Smith page on Wikioo.org to learn more about the artist and her works.
• Explore the Gibbes Museum of Art collection, which features some of Smith's most notable pieces.
• Discover more about the Charleston Renaissance and its leading figures on Wikioo.org.

Smith's contribution to American art is undeniable, and her work continues to inspire artists and art enthusiasts alike. Her watercolors of Charleston's streets, gardens, and architecture remain a testament to her skill and dedication to preserving the city's unique character.