Rolinda Sharples Paintings

Rolinda Sharples was an English painter known for her portraits and genre paintings in the early 19th century. Born in 1793 in Bath, Somerset, England, she was the daughter of James Sharples, a noted portrait painter, and Ellen Wallace Sharples, who was also an artist. Rolinda grew up in a family deeply involved in the arts and was encouraged to develop her artistic talents from a young age.

Rolinda's early education in the arts came from her parents, and she began exhibiting her work at the Royal Academy in London when she was just 17 years old. Her works often depicted scenes of everyday life and featured detailed group portraits. One of her most famous paintings is 'The Cloak Room, Clifton Assembly Rooms,' which showcases her skill in capturing the nuances of social interaction.

In 1817, Rolinda moved with her family to America, where they sought to capitalize on the growing demand for portrait art. They lived in New York and Philadelphia, and during this time, Rolinda continued to develop her artistic style. However, the family returned to England in 1820, settling in Bristol, where Rolinda became a prominent figure in the local art scene.

Throughout her career, Rolinda Sharples maintained a focus on creating realistic depictions of her subjects. Her attention to detail and the lively expressions of her figures earned her recognition in a male-dominated profession. Despite facing the challenges of being a female artist in the 19th century, she was able to achieve a degree of success and maintain financial independence through her art.

Sadly, Rolinda Sharples's life was cut short when she died in 1838 at the age of 45. Her legacy lives on through her paintings, which provide a valuable insight into the social and cultural life of her time. Today, her works are appreciated for their historical significance and artistic merit.