Malvina Cornell Hoffman was born on June 15, 1885 in New York City, New York. From a young age, she showed a talent for art and a fascination with the human form. Her parents encouraged her artistic pursuits, leading her to pursue formal training in sculpture.
At the age of 23, Hoffman made the bold decision to move to Europe to further her artistic education. She was determined to study and perfect her craft, seeking out the best teachers and opportunities to hone her skills.
After many failed attempts, Hoffman was finally accepted as a student by the renowned sculptor Auguste Rodin. Under his guidance, she learned invaluable techniques and honed her skills as a sculptor. Rodin's influence can be seen in Hoffman's work, which often exhibits the same sense of movement and emotion that characterized Rodin's sculptures.
Throughout her career, Hoffman was known for her life-size bronze sculptures of people. One of her most famous works is the Martinique Woman, which is housed in the Brooklyn Museum. Her sculptures often depicted dancers, a subject that she was particularly inspired by and fascinated with.
Hoffman married Samuel B. Grimson, a union that provided her with love and support throughout her life. Despite the challenges that women artists faced during her time, Hoffman was able to pursue her artistic passions and leave a lasting impact on the art world.
In her later years, Hoffman continued to create beautiful sculptures and work on various projects. Her legacy lives on through her art, which can be found in museums and collections around the world.
Malvina Cornell Hoffman was a trailblazer in the world of art, breaking barriers and challenging conventions to create stunning works of art that continue to captivate audiences to this day.