Introduction

Grace Church, by Eleanor Gay Lee

From the Collection of Lincoln Grebarier Over its more than a century of existence, the Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club has achieved an enviable reputation for excellence and professionalism. Established in 1896, it continues to be a vital force committed to encouraging women artists by providing them opportunities to compete on a national level and to exhibit their work.

This book chronicles the historical and living record of CLWAC and the accomplishments of its many remarkable members as well as recognizing the extraordinary qualities of the woman for whom it is named. Catharine Lorillard Wolfe was not herself an artist, but she evidenced an unusual interest in art, combined with a profound desire to help others. Her deep involvement with Grace Church, one of the oldest and most influential Episcopal congregations in New York City and one that was known for its social concerns, enabled her to further both these commitments. Although CLWAC has from its inception been a secular organization, it came into being through Catharine Lorillard Wolfe’s foresight and generosity to Grace Church. It has been the Club’s good fortune that the Church has continued for so many years to provide a home for its operations.

Beginning as a supportive refuge for struggling young women art students living alone in New York City, the Club has evolved in many ways since its founding. It very quickly became a highly professional group, growing to national recognition. But it has always maintained its spirit and dedication through the cooperative efforts selflessly made by countless talented volunteers. While the modern world has significantly altered the mechanisms by which CLWAC operates, the need for such a group remains strong. Many women have achieved high levels of recognition. However, the evidence remains clear of the imperative need for women artists to be given opportunities to demonstrate that they are artists who happen to be women, not the other way around.

There is no way we can speak individually of all those who have in so many ways contributed to the success of the Club, but we hope that in presenting its history, and biographies of its Presidents, Honorary Members, and outstanding Artist Members, accompanied by illustrations of their work, we will encourage others to follow. It has been heartening to see emerging, younger artists value the standards CLWAC sets and be motivated to strive for the highest professional achievements.