Words cannot capture the true scope of David Curtis’s life and its positive influence on others. He was an acclaimed artist and educator, a father, husband and a beloved leader of the Cape Ann Art community. He embodied Art, visibly enjoyed living it and sharing it.

David was introduced to Art at an early age by his artist-father, Roger Curtis, and partook in Art classes with his uncle, Howard Curtis, while a student at Gloucester High School. He grew up surrounded by painters and the Art of Cape Ann. This was enhanced by his studies with R.H. Ives Gammell. Later he became a member of the Copley Society and The Guild of Boston Artists. He won countless awards and is listed in Who’s Who in the East.

David is the only person in 100 years to serve two separate stretches as President of the Rockport Art Association & Museum: 2001 to 2005 and 2015 to 2016.

Saturdays, David could be found at the Cox Reservation where artists would flock to paint and receive critiques from him and the camaraderie within the group he established. This supported the artistic development of so very many students. He also invited “ringers” to come along, established painters he befriended, enhancing the dynamic of the sessions.

In early Spring, David would offer a ‘Painting from the Masters Workshop’ at RAA&M. Collection pieces were hung in the Hibbard Gallery and, one student per painting, they were copied under his instruction. This was done in the artistic tradition of past centuries: artists learning from studying the style, techniques and compositions of past artists through exacting a facsimile.

I, as many, many others, was a beneficiary of David’s generous inclusivity and his artistic intelligence, his kindness, and perceptiveness. I will ever be grateful treasuring the exchanges with him, and knowing of the many he encouraged, taught, and gave a lift forward to, accepting everybody as he found them. His wealth of knowledge flowed from him with ease.

If you would like to donate in David’s memory, as his family requested, you can do so securely through our website. RAA&M will use this toward honoring David’s passion for Art, and eager students. David was so encouraging in leading students to find their artistic voice, develop their skills and their building of an understanding of Art.

Respectfully and with a sense of great loss to the Community,

Heidi Caswell Zander
Acting Director of RAA&M, President of the Board of Governors