backstory: Remembering Nataly Ritter
Here at the Neuberger, we were all saddened to learn of the passing of our friend, Nataly Ritter.
At her memorial service this morning, Nataly was described as “a walking work of art.” It’s a beautiful and fitting way to remember her—graceful, expressive, and uniquely full of life.
Nataly and her late husband, Toby, were longtime and deeply committed supporters of the Museum. Nataly, who passed at the age of 88, was a devoted former member of the Board of the Friends of the Neuberger Museum of Art, as well as a longtime docent who worked with many, many students over the course of her time with us.
Over the years, Nataly offered me wise counsel, and I came to deeply value her warmth, curiosity, and generous spirit. Together, she and Toby supported the Neuberger’s curatorial efforts in many ways, including providing funds for our acquisition of Edge of the Marsh (2000–2003) by April Gornik and Blot Out the Sun #1 (1998–1999) by Doug and Mike Starn.
Nataly’s thoughtfulness and dedication to the Museum will be missed by all of us who had the privilege of knowing her.
Tracy Fitzpatrick
Director, Neuberger Museum of Art
