Sunday, March 11, 2007

Women's Gifts to the World are Many

"I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver." Maya Angelou


"For millennia women have left their mark on the world, at times changing the course of history and at other times influencing small but significant spheres of life. Only in the past century, however, have concerted efforts been made to mention women's contributions in history books. Moreover, changes in status for many women in modern times—the right to own property, to vote, and to choose their own careers—may obscure the accomplishments made by women of earlier eras. In profiling 300 women who changed the world, Encyclopædia Britannica has chosen those whose contributions have endured through the ages." You can read about these fascinating women at: http://www.britannica.com/women


So many women have given so much to the world, it is always inspiring to read their stories. One such story that inspired me is that of Eva Zeisel. So I thought I'd briefly tell you about her today.


Eva Zeisel (born in Hungary November 13, 1906) is an industrial designer known for her work with ceramics, primarily from the period after she immigrated to the United States. She was imprisoned during the Stalinist purge of the 1930s, then evaded Nazi forces before finally settling in New York City. Her best known work includes the eccentric, biomorphic "Town and Country" line of dishes, produced by Red Wing Pottery, the "Museum" line from Castleton, which was exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and the Tri-Tone line by Hall. In 1998, a limited run of reproduction Town and Country pieces was sold through MoMA.

On December 10, 2006, The Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park, San Diego, opened a major centennary retrospective exhibit "Eva Zeisel: Extraordinary Designer at 100," showing her designs from Schramberg (1928) through to current designs for Nambe, Chantal, Eva Zeisel Originals and others (2006). The exhibit will run until 6/10/2007. She went on to design more than 100,000 everyday products, including the Town and Country line for Red Wing Pottery.

In commemoration of her 100th birthday, Chantal released a numbered, limited edition teakettle Zeisel recently designed— "Centenarian Kettle" - her first kettle. With an ergonomic handle, a brushed stainless steel body, and a reasonable $79.99 price tag, the new Eva Kettle is almost as cool as the story behind it.

To read more about Ms Zeisel, visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eva_Zeisel

By the way if you are interested in purchasing the Centenariaun kettle, you can order it online at: www.bloomingdales.com.

Wishing you a terrific day... looking forward to welcoming you to Virtual Woman's Day on Thursday, March 15th!

Warmest regards,

Heidi & Suzannah

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