Passion for Art

Ruth Payne Burgess and John W. Burgess in New York studio

Encouraged by her husband, Ruth pursued her study of art and developed a career. As a highly respected professor, John’s professional and social contacts were invaluable, particularly in Ruth acquiring portraiture commissions. Working from a studio in New York City, Ruth’s gallery exhibitions often included landscapes of Italian and New England country sides that appealed to a sophisticated clientele. Later, Ruth’s studio was moved to Newport, noted for its high society residents.