Retta T. Matthews facts for kids

Retta Therese Matthews (1856 – 1899) was an American artist. She was known for her beautiful paintings and sculptures. She also taught art to many students.

About Retta Matthews

Retta Therese Matthews was born on April 7, 1856, in Arlington, Indiana. She loved art from a young age.

Her Art Education

From 1881 to 1884, Retta studied art at the Cincinnati Museum Association Art School. This was a very important time for her. After her studies, she moved to San Antonio, Texas. There, she taught art classes in public schools for several years.

Later, Retta traveled to Paris, France. Paris was a famous city for artists. She continued her art studies there with a teacher named M. Ingelbert. Sadly, she became ill and had to return to Indiana in the early 1890s.

Showing Her Work

Retta Matthews was a talented artist. She showed her work at big events. In 1893, she exhibited her art at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, Illinois. This was a huge world's fair. Her art was displayed in the Indiana State Building and the Woman's Building.

She also showed her art at the Ohio State Fair. In 1894, she won first prize for one of her pieces. This was a great achievement!

Retta Matthews passed away in February 1899 in Indiana.

Her Famous Statue

Indiana (c.1893), a statue by Retta Matthews. It is now at the Indiana Statehouse Public Art Collection.

One of Retta Matthews' most famous artworks is her statue called "Indiana". She created this statue for the 1893 World's Exposition. Today, you can see this special statue at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. It is a lasting reminder of her artistic talent.