Expert: J Heuman - 8/16/2004

Question
I just purchased a work by Shainess and am interested to know all I can about her. Anything you can tell me or any help in where to learn more about her would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you, Keith

Answer
Greetings Keith:

I can offer only tidbits, as Shainess has fallen through the cracks of major art historical monographs and studies.  (There are several reasons, including sexism and derivative vs. innovative style.)

So, born (1896) and raised in Manchester, England, Shainess immigrated to the United States, settling in New York City.  She studied at the famed Arts Students League.  During the Depression, she worked for the WPA.  Shainess is known especially for colorful geometric abstractions, though she also worked in sculpture and textiles.  She passed away in 1987.

Sadly, this is the best I can muster, though I suggest contacting the Whitney Museum of American Art and/or the National Academy of Design, both of which include Shainess in their collections.

Best wishes, sincerely,
J Heuman