Walter Ufer, a distinguished American artist, is celebrated for his captivating depictions of Native American life, particularly the Pueblo Indians. Born on this day July 22, 1876 and hailing from Germany, Walter Ufer’s life is a compelling tale of artistic exploration, social activism, and enduring legacy.
The Early Years
Raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Ufer displayed an innate talent for painting from a young age. He began his artistic journey as an apprentice to a lithography firm, a process of printing that involves creating images on a stone or a metal plate with a smooth surface. This early exposure to the world of art had a profound impact on Ufer, shaping his future career as a renowned artist.
European Sojourn
In pursuit of honing his artistic skills, Ufer traveled to Europe, where he studied at the Royal Academy in Munich. His time in Europe was transformative, providing him an opportunity to learn from masters of the craft and refine his style.
The period was also significant as he met Joseph Henry Sharp and Ernest Blumenschein, future fellow members of the Taos Society of Artists, during his studies. His European journey also included a visit to Paris, Italy, and North Africa, widening his artistic perspective and adding a nuanced diversity to his work.
Move to America and Chicago Years
Upon his return to America, Ufer worked as an illustrator in Chicago, where he found a supportive patron in Carter Harrison, the city’s mayor. Walter Ufer’s association with Harrison presented him the opportunity to visit Taos, New Mexico multiple times, starting in 1914. This exposure to the vibrant culture and scenic beauty of Taos left a deep imprint on Ufer’s artistic sensibilities.
Taos Society of Artists
In 1917, Ufer permanently relocated to Taos and became part of the esteemed Taos Society of Artists. The society, formed in 1915, aimed to promote the Taos art colony and establish it as a globally recognized art center.
The original founders of this remarkable group, known as the “Taos Six”, included Eanger Irving Couse, Joseph Henry Sharp, Oscar Berninghaus, Bert Geer Phillips, W. Herbert Dunton, and Ernest Blumenschein. Ufer, along with E. Martin Hennings, joined this group later, further adding to the collective’s artistic diversity.
Artistic Style and Influence
Ufer’s art primarily centered on realistic, non-dramatized portrayals of Native American life. His work stood out for its high-keyed palette and genre scenes of Native American life. One of his favorite subjects was a Taos Indian known as Jim Mirabal, who was often referred to as “Ufer’s Jim.”
Social Activism
Apart from his artistic endeavors, Ufer also stood out for his commitment to social justice. He was an active supporter of the local Native Americans, empathizing with their struggle to preserve their cultural identity amid oppression.
A socialist at heart, Ufer was a friend of Leon Trotsky and was known for his participation in picket lines and labor group protests. His activism extended to helping during the 1918 flu epidemic and raising funds for miners on strike in Madrid, New Mexico.
Career Heights and Challenges
Despite personal struggles with alcoholism, Ufer’s art continued to earn critical acclaim. He became an Associate Member of the National Academy of Design in New York in 1920 and was inducted as a full National Academician in 1926.
However, the Stock Market crash of 1929 adversely affected the market for his work, causing a financial setback. Despite these challenges, Ufer found a supportive patron in William Henry Klauer, a businessman from Dubuque, Iowa, who provided financial backing that allowed Ufer to continue his artistic pursuits.
Legacy
Ufer’s health deteriorated over the years, leading to his death in 1936. However, his legacy lives on through his remarkable body of work. His paintings are held in the permanent collections of several major museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Brooklyn Museum, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Corcoran Gallery in Washington D.C.
Remembering Walter Ufer
Walter Ufer’s life and work serve as a testament to the power of art to capture the richness and diversity of human experience. His journey from a lithography apprentice to a celebrated member of the Taos Society of Artists epitomizes the transformative potential of art. He remains an inspiring figure in the annals of American art history.
For More Information
To learn more about Walter Ufer and his artwork, visit the following resources:
