IRIS is a signed Artist Proof offset lithograph by Ruth Heppler depicting pale pink irises along a quiet waterscape, blending botanical realism with atmospheric depth and mid-century American sensibility.
IRIS is a limited edition offset lithograph by American artist Ruth Heppler, produced circa the 1960s–1980s, a period when offset printing was commonly used to translate finely detailed original artworks into accessible collectible editions. The composition presents softly rendered pink irises rising from the water’s edge, framed by reeds, reflective water, and a distant tree line that dissolves into mist.
Although not a hand-pulled lithograph or intaglio print, the offset lithographic process faithfully preserves Heppler’s nuanced linework, tonal transitions, and painterly sensitivity to nature. The floral forms are gently articulated, with subtle veining in the petals and carefully modulated greens in the leaves, creating a calm, contemplative mood typical of her nature-focused practice.
The print measures 19 × 26 inches, is signed and numbered as an Artist Proof (AP), and reflects vintage characteristics consistent with age, including heavy foxing, which should be noted for condition transparency. Works of this type were often sold through regional galleries and art fairs rather than produced as fine-art print editions from master printers, situating them squarely within the mid-century American decorative and collectible art market.
Ruth Heppler is an American artist whose career encompasses painting, printmaking, and sculpture, with a sustained focus on nature-based subject matter. She received more than 15 awards, including the Grumbacher Award, and recognition from the National Decoy Show, highlighting her technical skill and strong observational foundation.
Heppler was awarded a Salamagundi Scholarship, enabling her to study under Cliff Young, and she further refined her printmaking knowledge through the study of intaglio techniques with Ruth Leaf, one of the most respected American etchers of the 20th century. Her work demonstrates a balance between academic training and a personal, meditative response to landscape and botanical forms.
Exhibiting in galleries from New York to North Carolina, Heppler built a respected regional reputation. For over two decades, she also served as an instructor of oil painting at Craven Community College, where she emphasized close observation, patience, and fidelity to natural form—principles that remain evident in her printed works.
Ruth Heppler, IRIS, c.1960s–80s, signed Artist Proof offset lithograph, 19×26″, floral waterscape composition, American mid-century nature art.
This certifies that IRIS is an authentic limited edition offset lithograph by Ruth Heppler, created circa the 1960s–1980s, signed and numbered as an Artist Proof. The work is consistent with Heppler’s documented subject matter, signature style, and period production practices. Condition reflects age, including noted foxing.
Private Collector → Mitch Morse Gallery, New York City (acquired in NYC and Europe) → Artfind Gallery, Washington DC (Current Owner)
IRIS is a signed Artist Proof offset lithograph by Ruth Heppler depicting pale pink irises along a quiet waterscape, blending botanical realism with atmospheric depth and mid-century American sensibility.
IRIS is a limited edition offset lithograph by American artist Ruth Heppler, produced circa the 1960s–1980s, a period when offset printing was commonly used to translate finely detailed original artworks into accessible collectible editions. The composition presents softly rendered pink irises rising from the water’s edge, framed by reeds, reflective water, and a distant tree line that dissolves into mist.
Although not a hand-pulled lithograph or intaglio print, the offset lithographic process faithfully preserves Heppler’s nuanced linework, tonal transitions, and painterly sensitivity to nature. The floral forms are gently articulated, with subtle veining in the petals and carefully modulated greens in the leaves, creating a calm, contemplative mood typical of her nature-focused practice.
The print measures 19 × 26 inches, is signed and numbered as an Artist Proof (AP), and reflects vintage characteristics consistent with age, including heavy foxing, which should be noted for condition transparency. Works of this type were often sold through regional galleries and art fairs rather than produced as fine-art print editions from master printers, situating them squarely within the mid-century American decorative and collectible art market.
Ruth Heppler is an American artist whose career encompasses painting, printmaking, and sculpture, with a sustained focus on nature-based subject matter. She received more than 15 awards, including the Grumbacher Award, and recognition from the National Decoy Show, highlighting her technical skill and strong observational foundation.
Heppler was awarded a Salamagundi Scholarship, enabling her to study under Cliff Young, and she further refined her printmaking knowledge through the study of intaglio techniques with Ruth Leaf, one of the most respected American etchers of the 20th century. Her work demonstrates a balance between academic training and a personal, meditative response to landscape and botanical forms.
Exhibiting in galleries from New York to North Carolina, Heppler built a respected regional reputation. For over two decades, she also served as an instructor of oil painting at Craven Community College, where she emphasized close observation, patience, and fidelity to natural form—principles that remain evident in her printed works.
Ruth Heppler, IRIS, c.1960s–80s, signed Artist Proof offset lithograph, 19×26″, floral waterscape composition, American mid-century nature art.
This certifies that IRIS is an authentic limited edition offset lithograph by Ruth Heppler, created circa the 1960s–1980s, signed and numbered as an Artist Proof. The work is consistent with Heppler’s documented subject matter, signature style, and period production practices. Condition reflects age, including noted foxing.
Private Collector → Mitch Morse Gallery, New York City (acquired in NYC and Europe) → Artfind Gallery, Washington DC (Current Owner)
