Biographical Material

Found here are scattered personal papers, such as Parsons's artist biography, family trees for the Pierson and Miles families, association membership cards, two interview transcripts, thirteen passports, travel itineraries, photographs, and a mailing list of invitees for Parsons' Memorial. The folder containing miscellaneous personal papers includes ephemera, handwritten notes, an American Red Cross employment application, a small watercolor landscape by Lynn Yarnell, and several unsigned sketches. Photographs in this subseries include snapshots and professional portraits, the bulk of which span the mid-1960s to early 1980s. Most of the photographs feature Parsons, but there are photographs of others that are not identified as well as beach views, perhaps taken near her Southold, Long Island Studio, and photographs of Parsons at her St. Martin's home. There is one photograph of Parsons and Marie Carr Taylor taken by Henri Cartier-Bresson for Vogue magazine, circa 1960s. Additionally there is a folder of photographs of works of art, primarily paintings, depicting Betty Parsons. A significant portion of the files in this series chronicle Betty Parsons's activities related to the art world. As a renowned art dealer and respected artist, Parsons was a frequently requested speaker, juror for juried art exhibitions, and awards honoree. Her participation at these events is recorded through correspondence, invitations, programs, and award certificates. Noteworthy files include "The Creative in Art" seminar at Sarah Lawrence College, which includes syllabus and extensive notes for ten lectures. There is also a group of folders that document her social and volunteer activities.