Description:

Wayman Adams
American, (1883-1959)
James Whitcomb Riley, 1916
plaster bust maquette
signed and dated.

Biography from The Heritage Society

Born in the small town of Muncie, Indiana, Wayman (by age 14) was known throughout his home state as a "boy wonder" because of his painting abilities. His father, a stock raiser by profession, was also an artist. While Wayman's creative interests were supported by his parents, he had no choice but to pay his own way through art school. The young Adams worked at a dairy daily from 6pm to 6am., managing to arrive at art class by 9am. Eventually, Wayman was able to quit his night job and make a living as a portrait painter.

He went on to study in New York, Italy, Spain, and Philadelphia. In 1918 he married Margaret Boroughs of Austin, Texas, a fellow pupil whom he had met in Italy. By this time he had won many awards.

In 1919 he was asked by the French government to exhibit at the Luxemburg Museum in Paris. Adams made Austin his home around 1920 and began painting several Austinites and other celebrities. Later that decade he won a Gold Medal from the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts for watercolor.

In 1933 he and his wife opened an art school in Elizabethtown, NY. They continued to live in Austin, spending their summers up North. The couple retired from teaching in 1945. In a late 1950's newpaper article, the accomplished artist reflects on his early struggles in the profession: "I haven't had a hard time of it, at all," he states matter-of-factly.

  • Dimensions: 7 1/4"H x 6"W x 4"D
  • Medium: plaster bust maquette

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Professional in house shipping services are available for items. Shipping costs will include carrier fees, handling, and insurance. A low bid purchase price does not mean shipping costs will be any less. The size and weight of a package will impact the cost that the carrier charges. Multiple items will impact the cost of handling. Items that are of high value will require more insurance. Contact Ripley Auctions if you would like a shipping estimate before the auction. Some items may require a third-party shipper. Please let the office know if you would like to pick up your winning bid or arrange your own shipping.

April 30, 2022 11:00 AM EDT
Indianapolis, IN, US

Ripley Auctions

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 25% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $199 $20
$200 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $2,999 $100
$3,000 $4,999 $200
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $29,999 $1,000
$30,000 + $2,500