BEN-SUMMERFORD-Obituary

BEN L. SUMMERFORD Jr.

Washington, District of Columbia

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Washington, District of Columbia

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  BEN LONG SUMMERFORD, JR.  (Age 91)  A painter and retired professor of fine arts, died peacefully Tuesday, April 14, 2015 at his home in Hagerstown, MD. He was born on February 3, 1924 in Montgomery, AL to Ben Long and Ollie Jo Summerford. During World War II, he attended the...

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I've been recently introduced to the paintings of Ben Summerford and I'm wondering if there are works available from his Estate.

In the 1970s, when I was an art student at American University, Mr Summerford and Mr D´Arista were, respectively, the Nice Cop and the Tough Cop of drawing instructors. I learned much from them, and often think of them. I imagine them in the great Art Department in the sky, continuing their work in some mysterious way. Thank you, Mr Summerford, for your kindness and support in teaching, lo those many years ago. Sail on!

This is Daniel Nie ('87) Prof. Ben Summerford was my teacher. He taught just very few of us some very useful tips for painting techniques. I am using his advice throughout my entire painting career.

I have a painting of his that my parents bought years ago. My mother was a close friend of Chris, who taught French at The Potomac School, where my mother taught Latin. I would love to learn more about Ben now that I have this wonderful still life he did. Feel free to contact me at 610-955-9436. Kristin (nee Rose) Jaffe

You taught me some good techniques that I have been teaching to my students all the time. The spirit of a great artist lives forever.

This is Daniel Nie. I was his student in 1986 at American University. Because of his teaching, and encouragement, I became a fulltime artist in my whole life---- it has been a successful artist's life. Thanks to this master. www.DanielNie.com

He will be missed. I was his student 1953 to 1957 and talked to him a few years ago..catching up on old times at A.U.I became a teacher because of him and at 80 I am still painting.

To a wonderfully enthusiastic mentor whose guidance I will always cherish, and whose zest was infectious. And to a life full lived, my deepest appreciation.

Daniel Nie, M.A., '87

Professor Ben Summerford was my mentor during my studies at American University in 1980's. I mentioned his name and his painting style to my students often. He was a great artist, and he will be remembered in this way in the history of art. His skillful way of using colors in painting will be a higher standard for future artists to study and to follow.
Daniel Nie, M.A., '87