Virgie Claxton (American, 1876-1953)

Virginia “Virgie” Claxton was born in Gatesville. She moved to Houston in 1910. She studied with José Arpa, André Lhote, Grant Wood, and Emil Bisttram. She became an important member of the Houston art community. Widowed after only two years of marriage to Mr. Lowenstein, she signed her painting with her married named during that two year period. In 1927 she was on the executive staff of the Christoval Art Colony. Grant Wood said she was the most apt pupil he had while she was his pupil. Specializing in landscapes, her paintings were critically received. Her work in the annual Houston Artists Exhibitions, the Southern State Art League, and in many regional exhibitions made her a popular artist of the 1930’s and 1940’s.