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Rita Pressman Shaw, who set out to brighten the world with art, 96

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Rita Pressman Shaw passed away peacefully on Friday, Oct. 22, 2021. She was 96.

She was preceded in death by husbands Daniel Pressman and Leo Shaw.

She was born in Newark, New Jersey, graduating with a degree in art history from Hunter College in 1946. She worked at the New York Public Library Picture Collection under the legendary Ramona Javitz.

A long-standing board member of the Riverdale Neighborhood House, she also co-chaired its art committee. In addition, she served on the Bronx Council of the Arts.

A fine artist, she worked in several media, including oil painting, Chinese calligraphy, watercolor, collage and assemblage art boxes.

She is survived by her loving family: daughter Gina Pressman Elardo, son Douglas Pressman, and grandchildren Wolf Elardo, Rex Elardo, Daniel Pressman and Sophia Pressman.

Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Rita Pressman Shaw,