EV ELYN KEL LY L A MBERT INTERNSH IP
The Life & Legacy of Evelyn Kelly Lambert
In 2014, the Nasher Sculpture Center and Peggy Guggenheim Collection launched a collaborative internship program named in honor of collector and philanthropist Evelyn Kelly Lambert, who called both Dallas and Venice home. Inaugural Evelyn Kelly Lambert Intern Melinda McVay reports on the local and international impact of the legendary Mrs. Lambert. “If I were ever to write a book, I would start with this: ’The Truth is mighty and I respect it. Therefore I will use it sparingly.’” Although Evelyn Kelly Lambert never wrote that book, she lived a life that was worthy of one. Those who knew Mrs. Lambert remember her as one of the last true grandes dames, a woman who organized lavish parties that supported numerous cultural events and institutions, spearheaded campaigns and even founded organizations to accomplish her goals. Born and raised in Tennessee, Evelyn became a citizen of the globe whose adventurous spirit led her to far-flung locales. She worked as a reporter in Cuba during Prohibition and after, transported produce
in Baja, lived on a houseboat in Kashmir, sailed the seas of South America, set out to explore Asia, and traveled around the world on numerous occasions throughout her lifetime. It was opportunity that brought Evelyn to Dallas when, in 1948, she took a position as the Director of Advertising for Neiman Marcus. Here, she quickly became a force in the fashion and art world and was reported to have been “one of the highest paid women executives in the nation” during her time with the company. Evelyn recalled her time at Neiman Marcus fondly, especially because it was there that she first met her husband, prominent Dallas landscaper Joe Lambert Jr., who is remembered for introducing azaleas to Dallas. Evelyn and Joe were the quintessential couple. “They complemented each other,” an old friend told The Dallas Morning News. “Joe was private and taciturn. Evelyn was flamboyant. But I’ve never known two people of such style and taste.” Another friend remarked: “Joe and Evelyn were not just a couple