Refregier was born in Moscow and emigrated to the United States in 1920. After working various odd jobs in New York City, he earned a scholarship to the Rhode Island School of Design in 1921. After finishing school, Refregier moved back to New York in 1925.
Refregier was born in Moscow and emigrated from Russia to the United States in 1920. After working various part-time jobs in New York City, he secured a scholarship at the Rhode Island School of Design in 1921. Upon completing his studies, Refregier relocated back to New York in 1925.