What would the arts in America be without its childless cat ladies? I give you a small sample from the delightful book Cat Lady Chic by Diane Lovejoy. It features all kinds of famous women with their cats, including actors, dancers, singers and artists. These three are the oldest in the book.
Here’s a brief overview of these important women. Elsie de Wolfe (1865-1950) gained a reputation as America’s first important interior designer. She also was one of the women who popularized French couture in this country. Her style was sophisticated and understated, which I think you can make out here with her elegant suit, her pearls and her interesting gloves. Georgia O’Keeffe (1887-1986) is one of America’s most noted painters. Her simple clothing style has gained great attention recently. Note the geometric print on her scarf, perking up a dark outfit. The woman on the right is the artist, writer, and ceramicist, Beatrice Wood (1893-1998). She hobnobbed with Dadaists in Paris and New York and then went on to found her own art center in California. Known for her interest in Eastern philosophies, she dressed in saris and long embroidered robes, enhanced with dramatic jewelry. She certainly deserves a post of her own.
Let’s celebrate our childless cat ladies—a gift to American culture.
Thank you for this.