Emma Lampert Cooper was an American artist born on July 24, 1855, in Nunda, New York. She showed an early interest in art and was encouraged in her pursuits by her family. Cooper attended the Cooper Union School of Design for Women in New York City, an institution founded by industrialist Peter Cooper in 1859 to provide women with professional training in art. After her education at Cooper Union, she furthered her studies in Europe, which was common for artists of her era seeking to refine their skills and exposure to different artistic movements.
Cooper's work was greatly influenced by her travels and studies abroad. She spent time in France at the Académie Julian, a private art school for painting and sculpture that was popular among international and female students due to its progressive acceptance of women artists. Her style was influenced by the Impressionist movement, which was predominant during her time in Europe. She was known for her landscape paintings, portraits, and genre scenes. In addition to oil paintings, Cooper worked in watercolor and was recognized for her illustrative work, which included children's books and magazine illustrations.
Emma Lampert Cooper had a significant career, marked by her achievements and contributions to the art world. She was the recipient of several awards, including a bronze medal at the Paris Exposition of 1900 and the silver medal at the Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco in 1915. She was married to fellow artist Colin Campbell Cooper in 1897, and together they traveled extensively, finding inspiration in the various landscapes and urban scenes they encountered. Her husband, an accomplished artist in his own right, was known for his urban architectural paintings.
Cooper's role as an educator was also notable. She taught at the Mechanics Institute of Rochester, which later became the Rochester Institute of Technology. Her teaching and mentorship helped to shape the next generation of artists. Emma Lampert Cooper's dedication to her craft and her success in a male-dominated field made her a role model for women artists during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Emma Lampert Cooper passed away on July 30, 1920. Throughout her life, she embodied the spirit of perseverance and excellence in the arts. Her works continue to be appreciated and are held in collections across the United States, serving as a testament to her skill and artistic vision.
