Author Jann Haynes Gilmore to discuss ‘Olive Rush’ bio at RAL Oct. 5

The Rehoboth Art League will host Dr. Jann Haynes Gilmore at 4 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 5, as she presents an illustrated talk and book signing for her new book, “Olive Rush: Finding Her Place in the Santa Fe Art Colony,” a new biography of artist Olive Rush (1873-1966). Gilmore is the author of seven books, all related to historical artists of Delaware, including “Ethel Pennewill Brown Leach: Delaware Artist of Time, Place and Season,” a scholarly biography of prominent Delaware artist Ethel P.B. Leach (1878-1960), and “Almost Forgotten: Delaware Women Artists 1900-1950.” She is also the author of ”Doors of Fame,” a history of the Rehoboth Art League.

Olive Rush was a prominent participant among the coterie of women illustrators taught by Howard Pyle in Wilmington. In 1920, Rush turned to easel art and became the first independent woman artist to join the renowned Santa Fe art colony. For over four decades, Rush's artwork was wide-ranging, including watercolor (her predominant medium), oil painting, and mural commissions in true fresco for the 1930s Works Progress Administration. Her works evolved from realism to an avowed modernist style.

Accompanying this talk will be works by Rush from the collection of Gilmore and B. Joyce Puckett. Signed copies of Gilmore's new book will be available for purchase.

The Rehoboth Art League is at 12 Dodds Lane, Henlopen Acres. For more information call 302-227-8408 or go to rehobothartleague.org.