“Abstract art departs from reality and nature only to draw far-reaching conclusions about reality. A legitimate abstract work of art can be produced only on the basis of a profound knowledge of nature.” - Thomas Benrimo
Thomas Benrimo (1887-1958) was born in San Francisco and after the Great Earthquake of 1906, which destroyed his early work and forced the family to move to New York. There he studied at the Art Students League and worked as as an art director for a theater company.
The 1913 Amory Show was a great inspiration to him and motivated him to pursue his own artwork. He also worked in the advertising business for several years.. A 1916 commission to serve as a ship camouflage designer and lecturer proved to further his teaching career. He then taught at the Pratt Institute from 1935-1939.