Page:Woman in Art.djvu/283

WOMAN IN ART of bronze casting, be able to make and temper his own tool for carving both in stone and wood. In fact, he must be capable of earning his living as a practical craftsman, as well as being an artist when natural gifts show themselves to be existent—and these gifts are not especially encouraged unless thought to be far above the average, a very important factor.

"If such methods could be carried out in all art schools, we would have far more good workmen, and fewer 'near artists'."

For the past two years this strenuous artist has been considering the composition of a group representing the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. It has necessitated the study of horses and monumental architectural sculpture in general; also it has led her into the study of comparative religions, the origin of symbols and ancient decorations. She tells how her travels in Tunisia and the Island of Djerba were most interesting in the light of these subjects; and in Rome—let her own enthusiasm touch the reader.

"Later in Rome and other Italian cities, the splendor of ancient art filled my soul, and more than ever before I should like to lay my homage at the feet of those great masters whose example of industry and passionate knowledge lives on through the ages and carries high the torch of Beauty, so that all may see and learn."

Miss Hoffman's first efforts in sculpture reflect action, energy, and a certain personal element that a true artist must have. Being permitted a glimpse of her personality and equipment, there is no mistake in saying that her appreciation and experience of art development carries the tone of a master.

Malvina Hoffman is one of the leaders toward the high-water mark in sculpture. She has made three portrait busts of Ignace Paderewski, representing respectively "The Man," "The Artist," and "The Statesman." The art value of these, as of others of her work, is beyond question when their place in the world is considered. All have had a fair showing in art centers. Mrs. Henry F. Osborn purchased "The Artist" and presented it to the American Academy in Rome. Interpreted, it is "the embodiment of a soul of dreams." "The Statesman," a most impressive head, has been said to suggest the brooding mystery that recalls the Egyptian; adding to that, it is a powerful face, the brow and eyes portraying deep thought.

A masterpiece by Miss Hoffman is "The Sacrifice," a memorial group of the late Robert Bacon (1860-1919), Secretary of State, Ambassador to France, et cetera, and of the Harvard University men who lost their lives 223