Laura Coombs Hills was an American artist known for her delicate watercolor paintings, especially her intricate floral works and miniatures. Born on September 7, 1859, in Newburyport, Massachusetts, Hills was one of the early female students to attend the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, where she studied under the tutelage of notable artists such as Helen M. Knowlton, William Rimmer, and Frederic Crowninshield.
In the late 19th century, Hills began to establish herself as a skilled miniaturist, earning great acclaim for her portrait miniatures, which were popular among the wealthy elite of Boston society. Her work in this area was characterized by a high degree of detail and a delicate touch, both hallmarks of her artistic style. Hills was a member of the Copley Society and took part in various exhibitions, including the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and the Boston Art Club. In 1893, she won a medal at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, solidifying her reputation as a leading miniaturist.
As the 20th century dawned, Hills shifted her focus to floral subjects, perhaps as a response to the declining demand for portrait miniatures. Her floral paintings, often executed in pastels or watercolors, were celebrated for their vibrant color and lifelike representation. Hills had a deep knowledge of botany, which informed her work and lent an air of authenticity to the plants she depicted. She often grew the flowers she painted, allowing her to study them closely and capture their beauty with precision.
Laura Coombs Hills was a trailblazer for women artists during a time when the field was predominantly male-dominated. She was a founding member of the American Society of Miniature Painters and served as its president for a time. Her work has been exhibited posthumously in various venues, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
Hills continued to paint well into her nineties, leaving behind a legacy of work that is noted for its elegance and fine detail. She passed away on February 21, 1952, in her hometown of Newburyport, leaving an indelible mark on the world of American art.
