Could the legacy of a single artist truly span generations, leaving an indelible mark on both the art world and the fabric of a community? The life and work of Howard Gardiner Cushing, and the subsequent generations of Cushings, certainly suggest that it can, weaving a rich tapestry of artistic achievement, familial ties, and enduring influence within the captivating realm of Newport, Rhode Island.
Howard Gardiner Cushing, a name synonymous with artistic talent, was a prominent figure in the American art scene. His oeuvre, encompassing portraits, figures, landscapes, and murals, reflects a versatile and accomplished artist. Cushing's journey began with rigorous training at the Acadmie Julian in Paris, under the tutelage of masters like Laurens, Constant, and Doucet. This foundational education equipped him with the skills and knowledge that would define his artistic style and establish his reputation.
Beyond his artistic endeavors, Cushing's connection to Newport, Rhode Island, was profound. His studio in Newport served as a creative hub, and the town became an integral part of his life and work. The impact of this artist transcended his paintings; his life intertwined with Newport's society and history. It is important to note that on July 19, the Newport Art Museum honored Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney and Howard Gardiner Cushing at its annual artists' ball. Even after his untimely death in 1916, Whitney commissioned works that would preserve Cushing's memory and artistic influence.
The following table encapsulates key biographical details and professional achievements of Howard Gardiner Cushing, the American painter.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Howard Gardiner Cushing |
Birth Year | 1869 |
Death Year | 1939 |
Nationality | American |
Known For | Portraits, Figures, Landscapes, Murals |
Artistic Movement | American Impressionism |
Education | Acadmie Julian, Paris |
Notable Works | Portraits, Murals (specific titles not provided in source material) |
Studio Location | Newport, Rhode Island |
Associated Artists | Laurens, Constant, Doucet (as teachers) |
Additional Info | Cushing's work emphasized the effects of light and atmosphere, inspired by French Impressionism. He was known for his distinguished bearing in his portraits. |
Reference | Wikipedia |
The Cushing legacy extends beyond the life of the artist himself. The family's presence in Newport continued through generations, leaving a lasting imprint on the community. The obituary of a later Howard Cushing, who died peacefully in his home in Newport on July 5th, 2020, surrounded by family and loved ones, provides a poignant glimpse into the family's enduring connection to the city. He is survived by his wife, Nora Knott. This demonstrates a consistent presence and involvement in Newport's life, adding to the story of the Cushing family within the region.
The familial influence also manifests in the business sphere, with the opening of Gardiner House, a boutique hotel in downtown Newport owned by Howard Cushing III and Wirt Blaffer, around the fall of 2023. The establishment, under the name Bloody Bull LLC, represents a contemporary adaptation of the family's presence in the city. The hotel's existence offers an example of how the Cushing lineage continues to adapt and grow within Newport.
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Further testament to the breadth of the Cushing family's legacy is seen in the architectural historian, Alexandra Cushing Howard, a granddaughter of Mr. Cushing, who spearheaded a mural removal project. She is now contacting museums regarding potential exhibitions. This act exemplifies a commitment to preserving and interpreting the family's history and its artistic contributions, suggesting that the Cushing story is still being written and reinterpreted.
The narrative also reveals instances of the family's social connections, with Howard Cushing III having married Mary Ames, whose mother was a member of the society, adding layers of context to their position within Newports social circles. Furthermore, references to family members like Howard Gardiner Cushing II, born in Manhattan, New York City, in 1906, and his later marriage, provide additional details in the extensive genealogy. Moreover, the estate built by Howard's great grandfather, Robert Cushing, and passed down through family hands, provides further evidence of the family's deep roots in the area.
The article mentions the incident that occurred in 1900 when Cushing was knocked down and trampled on by a horse. [21] He died in New York City on June 6, 1902. This instance, alongside his estate and the horses he owned, underlines his life and interests.
The artistic legacy also seems to have permeated the family's interactions with the art world, as noted by the references to Cushing's portraits that are "familiar to most of those who follow at all closely the contemporary school of American painting". Moreover, the fact that Cushing painted Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney in an androgynous ballet costume around 1911 further establishes his association with prominent figures of the time. This image was created as a part of a 125-foot-long mural in her studio.
The family's contributions are present in many facets of Newport's cultural and social landscapes, from the Newport County YMCA de Ramel Family Squash Center to the Sprouting Rock Beach Association (Bailey's Beach). The story of the Cushings is not just a tale of artistic achievements but a testament to a family's continuous engagement with its community. It speaks of a family that has left an indelible mark on Newport, spanning artistic accomplishments, business ventures, social connections, and community involvement, for over a century.
The story of Howard Gardiner Cushing and his family offers insights into the intertwined nature of art, family, and place. From the original artist's paintings to the efforts to honor his work and the later generations' activities, the Cushings have left a legacy that continues to resonate throughout the city. The Cushing family represents an ongoing narrative, where art and life converge, leaving a rich history, and a permanent presence in the culture of Newport, Rhode Island.



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