"I paint to express my love of humanity and the world." Rita Angus
Rita Angus, (12 March 1908 ā 25 January 1970), known as Rita Cook early in her career, is one of New Zealandās most iconic artists. She left a lasting legacy with her bold vision and distinctive style. Her landscapes, portraits, and still lifes capture a deep connection to Aotearoa, blending vibrant color, precise form, and rich symbolism. Ā
Despite challenges as a female artist in a male-dominated field, she persevered, shaping New Zealand art with her innovation and dedication. Her work continues to inspire, proving the power of art to transcend boundaries and evoke emotion. Ā
Here are five key lessons from her life and workāguided by her own words.
1. Celebrate Local Identity
Rita Angus captured the essence of New Zealandās landscapes, towns, and people with a striking sense of place. Her works like Cass and Central Otago showcase the unique character of the land, inspiring us to appreciate and celebrate our local environment.
āPainting is an ever-developing research into colour, form, space, and time, an endeavor to present the essence of New Zealand".Ā
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Cass by Rita Angus
2. Embrace Individuality
Angus was a pioneer of modernism in New Zealand and didnāt shy away from exploring new techniques and perspectives. Her art broke away from traditional styles, emphasizing the importance of individuality and authenticity in creative expression.
āThe creation of an artist's work is the reflection of an inner, spiritual self. It has to do with personal growth and discipline.ā
3. Find Strength in Self-Portraiture
Her self-portraits, including Self-Portrait 1936 and Rutu, reveal her evolving identity and emotional depth. They remind us of the power of introspection and self-representation in understanding and expressing our true selves.
āI believe the self-portrait to be an expression of an artist's search for truth. It is the realization of the artist's existence.ā
4.Ā Advocate for Peace and Social Justice
As a committed pacifist, Angus used her art and voice to advocate for peace, particularly during World War II. Her works, such as Dona Nobis PacemĀ (Latin for āgive us peaceā), reflect her belief in art as a medium for change, teaching us the importance of standing firm in our principles.
āI am a pacifist. I paint peace, hoping to contribute to the end of wars.ā
5. Persist Through Adversity
Despite facing challenges in her personal and professional life, Rita Angus remained dedicated to her craft. Her resilience and unwavering passion for art inspire us to persevere in pursuing our goals, no matter the obstacles.
āThe duty of an artist is to remain true to themselves in their work and in their life.ā
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Rita Angusās Tree (1939) showcases her modernist approach to landscape painting. With bold contours and simplified forms, the solitary tree stands against a serene sky, evoking strength and stillness. Angusās precise composition and restrained colour palette transform an ordinary subject into a symbol of resilience and contemplation. Her meticulous technique and keen sense of structure reflect both her technical mastery and emotional depth.Ā Tree is a testament to her ability to blend disciplined craftsmanship with a bold artistic vision, solidifying its place as a key work in New Zealandās modern art history.
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Rita's artistry continues to inspire, urging us to see the world with fresh eyes, embrace creativity, and stand by our convictions. Through her work and words, she reminds us that art shapes identity, challenges perspectives, and resonates across generations.
Learn more about the life of Rita Angus in Jill Trevelyanās book, Rita Angus An Artist's LifeāavailableĀ here>>
