Famous for scarves and sportswear that became a multimillion-dollar franchise in the '60s, Neumann was always keen on cross-marketing her brand identity to include a range of household products (carried by chic Anthropologie as well as department stores). However, at the core of Neumann's marketing strategy was translating trends in contemporary art to the mass market and introducing her own interpretations of exotic locales such as India and Africa. She was one of the first designers to create a successful lifestyle brand, bridging gaps between fashion, interior design, and celebrity culture. Although the book offers a light and visually appealing read, Neumann's work is probably best appreciated on table linens rather than the printed page.

Legendary designer and artist Vera Neumann (1907–1993) believed in art’s ability to inspire and enrich lives. An innovator and one of the most successful female entrepreneurs of her time, Vera built her company on a radical philosophy: fine art should be accessible to everyone, not just a select few. Known for her iconic images of cheerful flowers, trendy geometrics, and vibrant ladybugs, she believed people should surround themselves with beauty.

For the first time, Vera: The Art and Life of an Icon, tells her inspiring story through the art and designs she created. In this volume, richly illustrated with Vera’s original sketches, paintings, and photographs of her worldwide travels, readers are introduced to the amazing woman behind the dynamic designs that continue to inspire and influence art, design, and fashion.

Foreword

The Lavy Behind the Ladylug

An Original Vera

Fashioning a Brand

A Household Name

A Passpart To...

Bibliographse

Endnates

Photographse Credits

Acknowledgments