The Glessners visited the studio of artist Francesca Alexander during their 1890 trip to Europe. They purchased three of her pen and ink portraits, two of which were displayed in a stunning Scott-designed frame on the partners desk in their library; the third, recently rediscovered, was displayed in their parlor.
This talk examines the art and life of Boston-born artist Francesca Alexander. Francesca and her parents moved from Boston to Florence in 1853 and became part of a thriving international community. She was a largely self-taught artist, and both her art and writing focused on Italians and Italian life. Her portraits and nature studies, and her translations of songs and stories, were much admired by her contemporaries, including John Ruskin, who published three of her manuscripts and promoted her work to his followers.
She used her earnings from the sale of these publications, and her art, to fund her many charitable endeavors. Friends and admirers marveled at her saintly character, which they linked to a romantic view of Italy itself. Nonetheless, despite her celebrity on both sides of the Atlantic, she and her work have been largely forgotten. Drawing on her work, as well as other sources including letters, diaries, guidebooks, newspapers and magazines, this talk will provide a vivid biography of Francesca Alexander, her art, and her place in history.
Jacqueline Marie Musacchio is Professor of Art at Wellesley College. Her scholarship examines the intersections of women and art from the Renaissance to the early twentieth century; this talk is based on her recently published book of the same title.
This program will be recorded and a link will be sent to all registrants. The link will remain live for seven days following the program.
$15 per person / $12 for members
All ticket sales are final; no refunds or exchanges.