THE VFA PIONEER HISTORIES PROJECT

Miriam Schapiro

Veteran Feminists of America Salute to Feminists in the Arts, National Art Club, New York City November 6, 2003

Shelia Tobias:

You were born in Toronto as we heard earlier today.  In 1955 You became a painter full time. You originally painted in the Abstract Expressionist style, but as your commitment to feminism grew during the 1960s, you developed your own personal style what you call ‘Femmage’, combining commonplace elements such as lace. fabric scraps, buttons, rickrack, sequins and tea towels. She transformed them into sophisticated compositions. Her work launched the Pattern and Decoration movement in which she was a leading figure.  Throughout her career, Miriam, you’ve honored overlooked female artists. The generosity is as wonderful as the talent. And you have a long career and a long career still to come.

Miriam Schapiro:

Thank you. There’s a lot of love in this room. And it goes way back to when those of us who met together in the very beginning and learned to know each other and learn to work with each other. We were idealists. We worked so hard for our ideals, and I think we made it. And as a people have said today, there’s a long way to go. That’s true, That’s very true. But we’ve also accomplished a lot. I love you all and I’m thrilled with this. Thank you.