Renowned artist P Buckley Moss of Waynesboro, Virginia, has died. She passed away on Saturday, July 13th, 2024, at the age of 91, surrounded by her beloved family. The news of her passing was announced on Monday through a heartfelt post that said, “With heavy hearts, we at Canada Goose Gallery join the world in mourning the loss of an extraordinary artist, P. Buckley Moss. Patricia Buckley Moss was more than just an artist; she was a visionary who captured the spirit of American life and culture with a delicate and masterful touch.” No cause of death was mentioned.
Patricia Buckley Moss was born on May 20, 1933, in Richmond County (Staten Island Borough) of New York City. She was the second of three children born to an Irish-American father and a Sicilian mother. Her childhood was shaped by a rich cultural heritage that blended the traditions and values of both her Irish and Sicilian roots. Growing up on Staten Island, Patricia was surrounded by the vibrant energy of New York City, which undoubtedly influenced her creative spirit from a young age.
From an early age, Patricia displayed a keen interest in art. Her parents recognized her talent and encouraged her to pursue her passion. She spent countless hours drawing and painting, honing her skills and developing a unique style that would later become her signature. Patricia’s early experiences with art were deeply personal, a way for her to express her thoughts and emotions. This foundation of creativity and self-expression would carry her through her artistic journey.
In 1951, Patricia Buckley Moss received a scholarship to study art at the prestigious Cooper Union College in New York City. This opportunity marked the beginning of her formal education in art and shaped the trajectory of her career. Cooper Union was known for its rigorous curriculum and emphasis on technical proficiency, providing Patricia with the tools and knowledge she needed to refine her craft.
During her time at Cooper Union, Patricia was exposed to a diverse range of artistic styles and techniques. She learned from some of the most talented and respected artists of the time, which helped her broaden her artistic horizons. The college’s emphasis on critical thinking and experimentation encouraged Patricia to push the boundaries of her creativity and develop a distinctive voice as an artist.
After graduating from Cooper Union, Patricia continued to pursue her artistic endeavors. She married John Gordon Moss, and in 1964, the couple relocated to Waynesboro, Virginia, due to her husband’s work. The move to Waynesboro marked a significant turning point in Patricia’s artistic journey. The picturesque Shenandoah Valley, with its rolling hills, lush landscapes, and tight-knit communities, became a profound source of inspiration for her
Waynesboro, Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, provided Patricia with a new perspective on life and art. The rural scenery and the simple, pastoral lifestyle of the Amish and Mennonite communities deeply resonated with her. She found beauty in their way of life, their connection to the land, and their sense of community. These themes became recurring motifs in her artwork, capturing the essence of rural American life.
Patricia was particularly captivated by the Amish and Mennonite communities that farmed the countryside. Their distinctive attire, traditional practices, and close-knit families became the subjects of many of her paintings. She portrayed them with a delicate and masterful touch, highlighting their simplicity, humility, and enduring connection to their heritage. Her work resonated with viewers who appreciated the authenticity and sincerity of her depictions.
In 1967, Patricia’s talent was recognized with a solo exhibition at a museum. The exhibition was a resounding success, with her paintings selling out promptly. This marked a new phase in her career, encouraging her to market her work more seriously. Her reputation as an artist grew, and she began to attract a dedicated following of collectors and admirers.
By 1988, journalist Charles Kuralt had dubbed Patricia Buckley Moss “The People’s Artist,” a testament to the widespread appeal and accessibility of her work. This moniker was embraced by Patricia and became a key element of the marketing strategy for her art and related ventures. Her ability to capture the spirit of American life and culture in a way that resonated with everyday people set her apart as an artist.
In 1989, Patricia opened the P. Buckley Moss Museum in Waynesboro. The museum quickly became a cultural landmark, attracting approximately 45,000 visitors annually. The P. Buckley Moss Museum not only showcased her art but also celebrated the themes and communities that inspired her work. The museum featured a wide range of her paintings, from serene rural landscapes to vibrant depictions of Amish and Mennonite life.
The museum became a place where visitors could immerse themselves in the world of P. Buckley Moss. It provided a deeper understanding of her artistic vision and the stories behind her paintings. The museum also offered educational programs and workshops, fostering a love of art and creativity in the community. Patricia’s dedication to sharing her art and inspiring others was evident in every aspect of the museum.
Patricia Buckley Moss’s personal life was intertwined with her artistic journey. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, balancing her family responsibilities with her career as an artist. She and her husband, John Gordon Moss, raised six children together, and her family played an integral role in her life and work.
Tragically, Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, her first husband John Gordon Moss, and her son John Damian Moss. Despite these losses, she remained resilient and continued to find solace and inspiration in her art. Her remaining children and grandchildren were a source of immense pride and joy for her.
Patricia is survived by her five children: daughters Mary Donnelly (Kerry), Rebecca Ghezzi (Roberto), Patricia Moss (Mary Morgan), Virginia Moss (Corrado Gabellieri); her son Christopher Moss (Lisa); and her daughter-in-law Maureen Moss. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Kate Harvey (Michael), Sarah Donnelly (Anthony Frate), Sean Donnelly, Sofia Ghezzi, Michela Ghezzi, Pier Francesco Gabellieri, Chiara Gabellieri, Kristina Moss, Diana Moss, and Amanda Moss.
Patricia Buckley Moss’s legacy extends far beyond her paintings. She was a visionary artist who captured the essence of American life and culture with a delicate and masterful touch. Her work resonated with people from all walks of life, and her ability to convey the beauty and simplicity of rural communities earned her a special place in the hearts of many.
Her art has been featured in numerous exhibitions, galleries, and private collections around the world. Collectors and admirers have cherished her paintings for their authenticity, warmth, and timeless appeal. Patricia’s ability to connect with her audience on an emotional level made her a beloved figure in the art world.
At a later date to be announced, Patricia’s family will hold a ceremony to celebrate her life and legacy. The ceremony will be an opportunity for friends, family, and admirers to come together and pay tribute to an extraordinary artist who touched the lives of so many. In lieu of flowers, those who wish can send donations to the P Buckley Moss Foundation for Children’s Education, the American Cancer Society, or the Glioblastoma Foundation.
The P Buckley Moss Foundation for Children’s Education was established to support and promote art education for children. Patricia believed in the power of art to inspire and transform lives, and her foundation continues to carry forward her vision by providing resources and opportunities for young artists. Donations to the foundation will help ensure that Patricia’s legacy of creativity and education lives on.
Patricia Buckley Moss’s influence on the art world and her community is enduring. Her ability to capture the spirit of American life and culture with a delicate and masterful touch made her a beloved and respected artist. Her work continues to inspire and resonate with people from all walks of life.
The P Buckley Moss Museum in Waynesboro stands as a testament to her enduring legacy. It remains a cultural landmark, attracting visitors from near and far who come to admire her art and learn about the themes and stories that inspired her. The museum’s educational programs and workshops continue to foster a love of art and creativity in the community, ensuring that Patricia’s vision lives on.
As we remember Patricia Buckley Moss, we celebrate her life, her art, and her legacy. She was more than just an artist; she was a visionary who captured the spirit of American life and culture with a delicate and masterful touch. Her ability to find beauty in the simple, pastoral landscapes of rural Virginia and the lives of its people resonated deeply with her audience.
Patricia’s art was a reflection of her soul—a soul that was kind, compassionate, and deeply connected to the world around her. Her paintings told stories of love, family, community, and tradition, capturing moments of joy and serenity that resonated with viewers. Through her art, Patricia Buckley Moss touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on the world.
Patricia Buckley Moss’s life was a testament to the power of art and the beauty of the human spirit. She dedicated herself to her craft, creating works of art that captured the essence of American life and culture. Her legacy lives on through her paintings, her museum, and the countless lives she touched.
As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her extraordinary life and the impact she had on the world. Patricia Buckley Moss will be remembered as a visionary artist, a devoted mother and grandmother, and a beloved member of her community. Her art will continue to inspire and uplift, reminding us of the beauty and simplicity that can be found in everyday life.
