Rita Dee Bennington VT Death and Obituary – The art world is mourning the loss of Rita Dee, a distinguished contemporary visual artist whose work was intricately intertwined with the natural world, particularly the majestic beauty of horses. Dee’s artistic journey began in the serene landscapes of the Hudson Valley and later flourished in the Shires of Southern Vermont, where her art evolved into a unique and expressive form that captivated audiences nationwide. Her passing has left a significant void in the art community, but her legacy will live on through her stunning sculptures.
Born and raised in Upstate New York, Rita Dee’s passion for art and horses was evident from a young age. She spent countless hours observing horses, fascinated by their strength, grace, and movement. Dee translated her deep admiration for these animals into art, starting with creating wire sculptures of horses. Over time, her approach became more refined, and she developed a distinctive sculptural technique using driftwood—an element that would become synonymous with her name.
Dee’s formal education in art began at The College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY, where she studied art education. After completing her degree, she spent four years teaching high school art, inspiring young minds and encouraging creativity in the next generation of artists. However, Dee’s desire to refine her artistic skills led her to pursue post-graduate studies under the mentorship of celebrated artist Judy Pfaff at Bard College in Red Hook, NY. This period marked a pivotal point in her career, where she honed her ability to transform natural materials into breathtaking works of art.
The horse remained at the heart of Dee’s artistic practice, but her work also expanded to include other majestic creatures such as bison, moose, and stags. She believed in capturing the essence of the animals, not just their physical forms, but also their spirit. For Dee, driftwood was the perfect medium to convey the elegance and movement of these creatures. The organic fluidity of the wood seemed to mimic the strength and grace she sought to portray. Every piece of driftwood Dee collected from her walks along the banks of the Hudson River and other bodies of water was carefully selected, imbued with the potential to be transformed into art.
Dee’s sculptures, often large in scale, became highly regarded for their emotional depth and evocative presence. Through her work, she was able to evoke feelings of peace, strength, and grace, creating an intimate connection between the viewer and the subject of the piece. Her sculptures transcended simple representation, offering a powerful glimpse into the spirit of the animals she admired so much.
Throughout her career, Rita Dee’s art was displayed in numerous galleries and exhibitions across the country. Her sculptures found homes in private collections and public installations, cementing her reputation as a gifted and respected artist. Dee’s contribution to the art world was not just in her work, but also in the relationships she cultivated with other artists, students, and art enthusiasts. She was known for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering dedication to her craft, qualities that made her both a mentor and a friend to many.
Rita Dee’s passing is a profound loss to the art world, but her artistic legacy will endure. Her ability to transform natural materials into evocative and powerful works of art ensures that her influence will continue to inspire future generations. Through her sculptures, Dee captured the beauty, strength, and elegance of the natural world, leaving behind a lasting impression on all who encountered her work. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever live on through the timeless beauty of her creations. Rest in peace, Rita Dee.