Making Her Mark – Self Portraits III

On By ResaIn Making Her Mark

Welcome back to our Self Portraits series! I’m your host, Resa, with co-host Rebecca Budd, curator of Chasing Art. Today We are discussing an artist from the 17th century, Elisabetta Sirani.

Resa – So Rebecca, after all you’ve learned, and passed on to me, I’ve come to think Elisabetta was Bologna’s rockstar in the early mid 1600’s. Sayest thee what to that?

Rebecca – I agree wholeheartedly, Resa. Elisabetta Sirani’s exceptional talent and prolific body of work cement her status as a celebrated artist of her time. Despite the challenges she faced as a female artist in a male-dominated field, Sirani’s enduring legacy as a pioneering Baroque painter reflects her rockstar-like influence on the art world of her era.

Over her 10-year artistic career, Sirani demonstrated exceptional productivity, creating over 200 paintings, 20 etchings, and an extensive collection of drawings. I marvel at her ability to create a life/work balance. At the young age of 19, she took on the responsibilities of managing her father’s workshop, supporting her family, and establishing an art academy to mentor and teach women artists. Elisabetta Sirani was a true rockstar of Bologna in the 17th century. In my opinion, she continues to be a rockstar today!

Resa – Well then, let’s see what you discovered!

Master of Chiaroscuro

Elisabetta Sirani was an Italian Baroque painter born in Bologna in 1638. She was the daughter of the painter Giovani Andrea Sirani, who recognized and nurtured her talent from an early age. Sirani’s artistic skills flourished, and she became known for her exceptional talent in her short life.

Despite facing challenges as a female artist in a male-dominated field, Sirani achieved great success and recognition during her career. She was prolific, producing a large body of work that included historical and biblical scenes, portraits, and allegorical paintings. Sirani’s mastery of chiaroscuro (the treatment of light and shade in drawing and painting) and her ability to depict emotion and narrative in her works garnered admiration from her contemporaries and art enthusiasts.

The Virgin Crowned by Christ Child with Roses

A Pioneering Legacy

Elisabetta Sirani’s legacy extends beyond her remarkable talent as a painter. As the successor of her father’s workshop, she also played a crucial role as a teacher, notably contributing to the development of women artists during the Renaissance period. In addition to training her sisters Barbara and Anna Maria, she also instructed at least twelve other young women at the school she established. This pioneering initiative marked the first school of painting for women in Europe outside of a convent, embracing inclusivity regardless of the women’s artistic and social backgrounds.

Elisabetta Sirani’s legacy endures through her remarkable paintings and the influence she had on future generations of artists. She remains celebrated as a pioneering female artist of the Baroque era, showcasing remarkable talent and determination in the face of societal norms.

Resa – “Making Her Mark” even had Elisabetta’s working drawing/study for the above painting. It’s a wonderful complete experience to see both.

Rebecca– I believe the painting, “Virgin Crowned by Christ Child with Roses” is all about love. Elisabetta Sirani imparts a compelling depiction of Mary as a relatable and tender young mother, diverging from the traditional portrayal of the remote Queen of Heaven. In this painting, Mary wears a turban associated with peasant women in Bologna, creating a down-to-earth portrayal. Her adoring gaze at the playful Christ child on her lap exudes a sense of genuine maternal love. Notice how the brushwork is highlighted in the textured representation of the Virgin’s white sleeve, emphasizing its rough and homespun quality. Elisabetta Sirani, with this tender and intimate moment of affection, offers a humanizing perspective of Mary and Jesus.

On the left :

The Virgin Crowned by Christ Child with Roses – 1663 – (red wash with grey chalk on paper)

On the right:

The oil on canvas painting in the same year.

An Untimely Death

Tragically, Eliabetta Sirani’s life was cut short when she passed away at the young age of 27 in August, 1665. Her untimely demise sparked controversy snd speculation. Following her sudden passing, suspicions arose, leading to the trial of her maidservant, Lucia Tolomelli, who was accused of poisoning the talented artist. The circumstances surrounding Sirani’s death led to diverse conjectures, with some attributing it to love-sickness due to her unmarried status, while others cited stress as a contributing factor.

It is widely believed that the true cause of Sirani’s demise was the onset of peritonitis following a ruptured peptic ulcer. This unfortunate event may have been exacerbated by the significant stress she experienced, particularly after being charged with providing for her entire household.

The controversy and diverse interpretations surrounding her passing have added intriguing layers to the legacy of Elisabetta Sirani, portraying a life marked by exceptional talent, determination, and the complexities of the era in which she lived.

A Rockstar Funeral

Elisabetta Sirani’s elaborate funeral reflected the deep respect and admiration held for her in Bologna. The grand ceremony featured an enormous catafalque (a decorated wooden framework supporting
the coffin) adorned with a life-sized sculpture of the esteemed artist, as depicted in Malvasia’s biography.

Orations and music composed in her honor by prominent figures from Bologna added a solemn and dignified atmosphere to the proceedings. Following this tribute, she was laid to rest in the Basilica of San Domenico, Bologna, where she joined her father’s teacher, Guido Reni, in a shared tomb

This final resting place solidifies her enduring legacy alongside revered artistic influences, commemorating her exceptional talent and remarkable contributions to the art world.

The Personification of Music

Resa – Rebecca, of all the paintings in the “Making Her Mark” exhibition, the Elisabetta Sirani allegorical painting title The Personification of Music was, and remains my favourite. Apparently she painted it in exchange for music lessons. I think she belongs in The Twenty-Seven Club, don’t you?

Rebecca – I did not know that Elisabetta Sirani exchanged her paintings for music lessons, but I am not surprised, given her proficiency as a musician in addition to her exceptional talent as a painter. This exchange speaks to her versatile creativity and passion for various art forms, further solidifying her legacy as a remarkably talented individual in the Baroque era. I agree – she belongs in The Twenty-Seven Club.

Resa – Admittedly I am smitten by this artist. I am also wild about that fact that you are here on this journey through these profiles in exceptionality. Mille Grazie, Rebecca!

Rebecca – Resa, your dedication to artistic endeavours and your profound belief in the power of creativity to enrich our world have truly inspired me. Thank you for including me on this extraordinary journey of self-discovery through Making Her Mark. I look forward to what comes next…
“Mille grazie caro amico per averci invitato a unirci virtualmente alla tua Art Gallery of Ontario. Fino alla prossima volta.“

You can also visit Rebecca by listening in on some of her fabulous Tea Toast and Trivia podcasts.

Click the above banner to view & link to Rebecca’s sources. not included in the body of text!

Photos taken by Resa © – May 14, 2024

Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto, Canada

146 thoughts on “Making Her Mark – Self Portraits III”

          1. I wish you could see my photo files! Anyway, I need to stay calm or I’ll have us both spinning like Tasmanian Devils.
            Will keep sending pics when we finish our current projects. ❦

  2. This is an amazing read, Rebecca and Resa! The amount of artistic talent and productivity in Elisabetta Sirani’s short life is incredible, especially given all the stress she was under and being a woman in an ultra-patriarchal time and place.

    1. I agree Dave.
      It’s intriguing to me that the painting that enchanted me the most at the MHM exhibition(and I was mesmerized by many) was the allegorical “The Personification of Music”.

      I felt a connection to something, like I knew how she felt about music. It’s not just that she liked music, something deeper.

      Anyway, after Rebecca’s research she became my 17th century rockstar.

      Call me crazy, but I think we could have been friends.

    2. Thank you Dave for your insightful comment. When I exploring Elisabetta’s life, the questions that came to me were:

      1) How do outliers appear in history.
      2) How do we become an outlier today?

      It seems to me that outliers in history often emerge as individuals who challenge the status quo, possess unique talents or ideas, and make significant contributions that deviate from the norm. They stand out for their unconventional thinking, actions, or achievements that set them apart from the majority. So, if we aspire to become an outlier today, we must cultivate a strong sense of individuality, think creatively, take risks, and persist in pursuing their goals despite obstacles. It is not easy to push boundaries, embrace innovation, and dare to be different.

      For me, Elisabetta’s life is a call to action!

  3. So interesting. The allegorical painting looks familiar, but I did not recognize Elisabetta Sirani’s name. Thank you, Resa and Rebecca! Some things I noticed in the Virgin and Child painting–beside the beautiful chiaroscuro–is how real they look, even the hands and tiny toes. My older child and I have sometimes walked through museums picking out the ugly babies (as one does 😉), but this baby looks more like a real baby.

    I saw this article that looks interesting, but I’ve only read the preview page: https://www.jstor.org/stable/40605234

    1. I just had to check out the link, before I commented.
      Thank you! Then I had to go to my photo collection from the show, as I was sure I have images of a painting by Artemisia Gentileschi.
      Rebecca would say I fell into a rabbit hole.

      I DO!!! It’s gorgeous nude- oil on copper titled “Danaë”. It’s stunning. I’m so excited!

      I’m calming down now.

      Thank you for the lovely comment, Merril! Rebecca has been instrumental in helping me put these posts together. Her research is fabulous, and we love chit chatting about art.

      Yes, there is a realism to “Virgin and Child “.
      I agree, the baby looks real.
      Ah, so you are saying not all artists can depict babies beautifully?
      Fab comment, thank you!

      1. You’re very welcome, Resa! Thank you for the fabulous art feature.
        I’m not sure if you were serious or not about your question, but yes, lots of ugly babies in Medieval and Renaissance art. Also lots of misplaced breasts–like the male artists were saying “I know they go somewhere around here.” 😂

        1. I was/am serious.
          I know there are lots of babies, and breasts in Medieval and Renaissance art, I just never really gave it thought. I will be looking with a critical eye from now on!

          What a fascinating comment reply this is.
          I’m very happy the men knew the breasts went around the chest somewhere. 😂

          I do believe all of the breasts are in the correct places in the women’s art. 💃🏽🎨❦

          1. I wish I could walk through a museum with you, Resa to point out the babies and strange breasts. 😂 It’s also tied with fashion and ideals of womanhood–like the fair skin and blond haired Madonnas. (I wrote/edited a book a while ago called Cultural History of the Breast.)

            1. We’d have fun!
              OMG! “Cultural Encyclopedia of the Breast” Hardcover by Merril D. Smith. On sale for 118.00 on Amazon.
              I’m going to see if my library has it!

              1. I can’t believe you did that! Thank you, Resa. I hope you enjoy it. (The only one of my books reviewed by Playboy.😂😂) It might be fun to flip through.

    2. Isn’t JSTOR the most wonderful place, Merril – a brilliant Rabbit Hole. Many thanks for the link! I have often considered the impact of rivalry in creative endeavors. Does rivalry increase the possibility of innovation? When individuals or groups compete against each other, do they push them to think outside the box, strive for excellence, and come up with unique solutions to problems? A couple of years ago I read Sebastian Smee’s book, “The Art of Rivalry – Four Friendship, Betrayals, and Breakthroughs in Modern Art” He focused on Matisse/Picasso, Manet/Degas, Polloch/de Kooning/, and Freud/Bacon. I am going to read it again – I gained many insights from this book.

  4. Thanks Resa, first to let us discover Rebecca, saw her name often in comments, nice interview and she does provide many deep insights on this unknown painter to me, fabulous paintings, true, women painters in that area and I guess until the impressionnist movement were a rarity. The paintings and drawings of Elisabetta Sirani is stunning, too bad she dies so young. I like this series of interviews, always good to read and learn…

    1. Thank you, Jean Marc!
      I love the insights Rebecca digs up.
      At the gallery there are only small plaques by the paintings. Often they have only the artists name, country, years of life, and medium of the work. Oh, and what gallery or private collection owns them.
      It’s crazy how many people can afford to collect privately.

      Yes, Elisabetta died too young.
      Anyway, Rebecca and I have more reviews/interviews coming.
      There were about 235 works in the show, and I was able to photograph most.

      This show, “Making Her Mark” was the most exciting art show I have ever been to. Inspiring!! xx

    2. Many, many thanks, Jean Marc! I am honoured that Resa invited me to join her on this journey of discovery. I had never heard Elisabetta before I received an e-mail from Resa giving me her name. Regrettably, I will not have the pleasure of visiting the AGO in person, but Resa has graciously given us all a virtual tour. So a huge thank you to Resa for Making Her Mark. I have learned a great deal and I am excited to know what comes next.

      1. Me too! Lol
        So, at the top of my side bar is a MHM banner, which when clicked on will take us to all of the posts … albeit in reverse order of posting.

      2. Yes this is a great tour, and many thanks to Resa and your contribution adding to it, will wait for what is coming, always a pleasure to read those interviews. Thank you both!

  5. Great stuff because I’ve never heard of Elisabetta Sirani. Then again, I wouldn’t consider myself as an art history buff. I haven’t thought it before, but cheers to her for being a master in a world dominated by males. Thanks Rebecca and Resa!

    2. I am so pleased you enjoyed hearing about Elisabetta Sirani, Frank. My first time hearing her name!!! What was most interesting about her was the respect and honour a city gave her. She was, as Resa said so well, a rockstar in her time.

  6. Perhaps the original member of the 27 club… Who knows what she could have accomplished if she lived another decade or four? Great little bio sketch of this fascinating artist!

    1. Exactly, Trent, who knows what she might have accomplished.
      I had that thought in mind, the original member of the 27 club.

      I wondered why she was buried with Guido Reni, and not her father? Then, looking at the dates, her father died in 1670, outliving Elisabetta by 5 years.
      Then, I wondered why she had to assume responsibility for the household if her father was still alive.
      So many questions, So few answers.

      1. Her father might have either been incapacitated somehow (sick, injured, “senile”, etc.) or incarcerated/exiled… Possible it is written someplace if we searched enough, but maybe it is something lost to history.

            1. Gout is awful! I know someone who has gout flare-ups when he over drinks wine and eats too much meat. He cant walk!

        2. Interesting.
          I hadn’t thought of all those possibilities.
          My dad abandoned us when I was 4. I tend to think that first, but that’s not fair.

          Thank you, Trent!

      2. I wondered the same thing, Resa! There are so many questions that remain unanswered. I did read that Elisabetta’s father, Giovanni initially hesitated to have his daughter as a pupil, but Elisabetta still learned his technique.

    2. My thought exactly, Trent. She was only at the beginning of her creativity. I read that Bologna experienced a period of mourning and sadness with her passing. The community came together to honour Sarini’s memory, reflecting on her contributions and the impact she had on their lives. Her absence was deeply felt, but her legacy continued to inspire and unite the people of Bologna.

  7. I loved meeting this amazing artist and learning about her life and talent. What a tragic end, far too young. And her poor maid. Thanks for sharing her artwork and your research, and thanks to you both for the wonderful conversation.

    1. Yes, her poor maid!
      Or was it. her poor maid? Perhaps poison caused the peptic ulcer?
      Anyway, it’s all intriguing, long ago and unless we find some long lost diary with a confession, we will never know.

      Thank you for your lovely comment Diana.
      It’s such a joy to team with Rebecca on these posts.

    2. I am so pleased that you enjoyed meeting up with Elisabetta, Diana. The more I discovered, the more I was amazed by her resourcefulness and tenacity. She took on the support of a family and still maintained focus on her creative endeavours. Yes – her poor maid. She was at the wrong place at the wrong time. I can only imagine the horror she went through even long past the time of Elisabetta’s passing.

    1. Thanks Tim! Yes, it s a shame that she died so young. She offered a lot in her short life, and had more to give. xo

  9. Wow! It seems like your work keeps improving every time! It’s really fascinating, especially since I noticed the difference between the man’s and woman’s paintings. Here, I can feel now that the woman’s painting is absolutely in another variation.🥰🤙🙏💖

    1. Oh, thank you Aladin!
      I must admit the MHM art show invigorated me.
      You are right. We not only see paintings, we can feel them. (if there is something to feel)

      Rebecca and I are having a blast discovering all these women artists.

      💃🏽🎨💓🌹🌟

    2. You brought up a very thoughtful comment, Aladin!! Are there differences or similarities found when comparing the artistic expressions of women and men artists in paintings, Do women artists bring unique perspectives and themes related to gender, identity, and societal issues into their artwork? Do men artists may focus more on traditional subjects and techniques, sometimes reflecting their personal experiences or historical narratives? This would be a most excellent research project.

  10. A wonderful contribution to Making Her Mark. Sirani was extremely gifted and as Rebecca stated, so prolific for such a young age. Her art is breathtaking! Every detail seemingly perfect in such rich and elegant color. Her death is tragically controversial and ironically at age 27.
    A wonderful selection, amazing portraits and personal interpretation.

    Thank you so much Resa and Rebecca. Such an enlightening series , truly educational .
    Thoroughly enjoyed this !

    xoxoxoxo

    1. I fell in love with Elizabetta’s painting The Personification of music.

      Maybe it’s because of all the music and musicians in my life, I’m not sure. Anyway, I stood & stared at that painting for a long time. (much to the disgruntlement of many patrons). She spoke to me through the painting.

      27, too young, and I’m hoping she’s hangin’ with Jimi, Jim, Janis, Amy and the rest.

      Rebecca is right in there with research and interpretations. I do believe we are a good team for this series.

      LOL, there is still a couple hundred more works. In the end, I will share all I have, one per post, or 10 per post. It’s too fab not to share.

      Learning and enjoying… it’s a wonderful thing.

      xoxoxoxo

      1. Her paintings are so beautiful and impeccable I can’t choose a favorite! It’s hard to even imagine someone so gifted and just a young lady. Her death was so impactful made obvious by the elaborate farewell ceremony.
        Gorgeous heading dear Resa.
        xoxoxo

        1. Hers is a story that should be made into a mini series!
          Thanks re: the header. You know how much I love making headers! LOL!
          Did you get the drawings I sent in email?
          xoxoxoxo

    2. Thank you, Holly for joining Resa’s virtual tour of Making Her Mark. Did you notice Resa’s fabulous heading!!! I am having so much fun exploring these amazing women artists. I find that studying women artists of earlier time is crucial in providing a more comprehensive understanding of art history. I believe that it allows for a more inclusive and diverse perspective, highlighting the often overlooked contributions of women in the arts. Best of all, studying women artists helps to challenge traditional narratives and stereotypes, promoting gender equality and recognition for their significant impact on the artistic landscape of their time.

      2. The female artists had and are having impact again. It’s time to pay credit where it is due.

        I couldn’t resist. I searched the most expensive paintings in today’s adjusted prices. The most expensive is a DaVinci (Salvatore Mundi) $559.7 million usd.
        At the 117 & 118th most expensive we have a Monet and a Zao Wou-Ki tied at $79.1 million usd.
        All 118 are men.
        I don’t know who is 119.
        The most expensive painting painted by a woman is Jimson Weed/White Flower No. 1 by Georgia O’Keeffe – 57.2 million usd (also today’s adjusted price)

        I must say that the men’s paintings are wonderful, but excuse me!
        There are many paintings I like as much or better that are painted by women.

        Just saying.

          1. It seems women artists were taking a back seat to the male artists ( what’s new?). Imagine this wonderful artist and I had not seen her work before! It seems the surrealist female artists did get more attention than the renaissance era painters, Frida for example. Speaking of the value of particular artists work I recently saw that Kahlo’s paintings are far more valuable now than Vega’s , a shock for most. In fact some of her work is up there with the renaissance painters in valued artwork. Fabulous! Love this series!

            1. Frida’s “Diego y yo ” just sold for almost 35 million usd. It had sold in 1990 for 1.4 million, so it’s increased a lot.
              Still, the men are the winners.
              Thank you, Holly! I’m thrilled about this series!
              xoxoxo

            1. Absolutely! All you need is a screen play of this ladies life . They are resortstr for new stuff since the writers strike. Still haven’t recovered. What a project that would
              xo🐭🐭xo 📝✍️

    1. Thank you dear Shey! And you are welcome!
      Your comment hits the nail on the head.

      All of the arts I saw by women from long ago still has me spinning in some kind of love.

      I’m thrilled you and others are coming to see these posts. Rebecca & I are right into it!
      xxxxx

    2. Oh Shey – you gave me goosebumps with your comments. You reminded me that in between the date of our birth and the date of our passing there is a “dash”. The dates are just points on a calendar. What matters is the dash – what happens between! May we live those “dashes” boldly and with great enthusiasm!!!

    1. Yes, it is a shame.
      Her Madonna and Child art is beautiful, and I believe that wonderful depiction led Rebecca to her fabulous interpretation.

  13. Fantabulous as always, Resa, you need more INTERNATIONAL credit for these excellent posts.

    Should we podcast? I double dare you. We’ve mused before. Timing/work thing I guess. If you give me $100 that’s fine 1am is fine thanks.

    2. It’s unfortunate that this once in a lifetime exhibition of women’s art was shown only in 2 cities, Toronto and Baltimore.
      Although, it has made me interested in Baltimore.
      Anyway, that is one reason why I’m all keened up about sharing via all the pics I took. Thank goodness Rebecca is helping!

      Lol! NO $100.00 usd
      However, a podcast is cool. How would we do it?
      Send an email & let me know! xo

  14. Extraordinary series R & R and what an amazing ‘shooting star’ she was. She would have done [more] wonders had she lived longer. Thank you both for this beautiful presentation of Sirani.
    Hugs and love to both! ❤️😘

    1. Dahling artist,

      Elisabetta really was a “shooting star”.

      I am quite smitten by her, and her brief yet prolific body of work.

      HUGS!!! ❦❦🌹🌟 xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo🧽🧽

  15. I loved this exchange of knowledge by both of you … Learning so much more too in the process about this most talented artist of her time… I have always admired that painting of The Virgin Crowned by Christ Child with Roses. And yes, it exudes love.. ❤ xx Thank you for this wonderful post Resa and Rebecca xx ❤

    1. You are welcome, Sue!
      It’s been a joy wallowing in women’s art from 1400 – 1800 presented at the “Making Her Mark” exhibition, and working on presenting much of it (I went wild taking pics) with Rebecca.

      I had no idea of our rich heritage.
      Yes, love!
      xo❦🌹🌟

  16. Wonderful…as always. Such a beautiful post, highlighting an amazing woman artist. Death at a young age, but she left a body of work behind for us to enjoy and inspire other women. Great Job, Resa.

    1. Yes, I adore her work. I am completely enamoured by Elisabetta Sirani.

      That show Making Her Mark really inspired me. There is so much more to share!

      Thank you, Gi! Rebecca is a great co-host. Her research is fabulous!

      xo

  18. Hello Resa, long time no talk. I am back!

    What an excellent interview and showcasing a beautiful talented artist of that period time. The portraits are phenomenal. 🙂

    P.S Hope to hear from you soon. And I posted something new.

    1. Hey, Charlie!
      Welcome back!
      Elisabetta Sirani was/is amazing. It’s strange to put her in the past tense, when her art still speaks for her.
      🙂

        1. It’s crazy!
          I’ve always loved all of the arts. I married a musician and am/was a designer (still am).

          After 10 years of collecting street art, I have finally become an out and out art nerd.
          I even buy annual passes to the art gallery.

          If it wasn’t so darned expensive, I’d buy a membership! 🙂

          1. Art is a precious gift we all possess. Art brings everyone closer just like music. Poets are the guardians of healers. If we inject peace and hope onto our planet – her nourishment would bring her joy.

            🙂

  19. Fun interview once again and I learned so much! Love the gorgeous paintings! WOW, that ‘The Virgin Crowned by Christ Child with Roses’ is so wonderfully detailed. So sad that such a talented artist was gone so soon… I’m enamored by Elisabetta Sirani’s story!

    1. I agree with all you say, Ruth.

      I’m totally enamoured by Elisabetta Sirani, too.

      I think it should be a movie! Who could play her? Who is this young, that talented, and fits the physical description?

      Cheers!

      1. Oh you read my mind, Resa!! I enjoy casting and I’ve actually been paid doing casting work for a short indie film, he..he.. I’ve also been working on casting for my dream passion project (which I can tell you more about later) 😉

        So yeah I immediately thought that Elisabetta Sirani’s life could make for a good film! When I saw her photo of her here https://www.arthistoryproject.com/site/assets/files/27315/elisabetta-sirani-portrait-of-a-lady-half-length-as-pandora-or-artemisia-1665-trivium-art-history.webp I’m thinking that Jodie Comer could be a good choice as she’s so darn talented and can do any accent. She’s a bit older at 31 but she definitely can pull off being mid 20s. Take a look at her here https://i.abcnewsfe.com/a/8c74e85b-2cbf-4afe-8ba5-1fc6d91bfd47/bikeriders-4-ht-bb-230907_1694097991016_hpEmbed_12x5.jpg Her big eyes are quite similar!

        1. Yes, I think she would make a fab Elisabetta Sirani!
          Casting is another intriguing arm of film production.
          One by one each department becomes the most important.

          I’m all ears about your dream project.
          6 more days and the Emmy noms are announced.
          I’m quite excited. I know Shogun will sweep, but are there surprises? Will Tokyo Vice get any nods?

  20. What a truly extraordinary artist and life. To be so beloved by so many… I really can’t imagine such a “rock star” funeral. Thanks for introducing me to her art and her story, Resa and Rebecca. Your collaborations have such a charming sense of fun, no matter the painting or the life of the artist. Big hugs to you both.

    1. Elisabetta was an overlooked story in history. I hope no more.
      I suppose another issue about history is that many people can’t be bothered digging into it.

      I’ve always been drawn to history, even now when I know that different men(and some women) have written it from their pov.

      Yes, I’m having a blast with Rebecca. We have a lot more work and posts ahead.
      MHM left a massive mark on me.
      Big arty hugs.

  23. When I saw the latest post, I realised I had missed this one as I was preparing for my vacay.

    What a wonderful artist who definitely belongs in the 27 Club and can you imagine just what she might have created had she lived past that age? I mean, 200 paintings, etc is beyond impressive.

    Thank you both for your wonderful collaboration!

    1. Thunder!
      Thank you, thank you for caring to read these posts. Rebecca and I are learning a lot.
      Yes, the 27 club. I’ll bet she’s with Jim & Jimi right now.
      The woman was a lean, mean painting machine, and more. Imagine being a woman in charge of a household in that day and age.
      She is remarkable.
      xoxoxo

      1. Sorceress!
        Of course. I had to go back. You’re teaching us as well.
        And don’t forget Amy. She really was. I just read about a similar woman in a short story. Sometimes life throws you challenges.
        She really was.
        xoxoxo

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