: Three remarkable women who lived and worked together to become
leading American Victorian-age illustrators are the subjects of a
welcome exhibition at the Norman Rockwell Museum. At a time when
women were discouraged from becoming professional artists and
were prohibited from taking life-drawing classes at most art
schools, this talented, ambitious and determined trio became
celebrities and much sought-after illustrators.
Individually and collectively, Elizabeth Shippen Green, Violet
Oakley and Jessie Willcox Smith captured the attention of the art
world with their successful careers and close-knit lifestyles. To
this day their artwork is much admired, striking responsive
chords among book readers, old and young alike.
Their achievements are honored in "The Red Rose Girls: An
Uncommon Story of Art and Love," on view at the Norman Rockwell
Museum through May 31. Curated by the preeminent authority on the
subject, Alice A. Carter, a professor at San Jose State
University, the show comprises more than 100 paintings,
watercolors, vintage photographs, books and magazine tear sheets.
They document the vibrant lives and singular accomplishments of
three special artists. Carter's book, bearing the same title as
the exhibition, adds invaluable insights and context for her
show.
The "Red Rose Girls" came together from different backgrounds.
