Tasha Tudor Dies

I was saddened to hear last week that one of my favorite artists from childhood had died.  While it may have come as no surprise to her fans that after an incredible life of 92 years, Tasha Tudor passed away, I was completely shocked.  Because, I'm embarrassed to say, I had no idea she was still alive. 

I would have sworn that Tasha Tudor was a 19th century painter who obviously must have passed away years ago.  Those who know her history will understand my confusion.  Those who don't, here’s the story: Tasha Tudor was born in Boston in 1915, but she lived the life of a 19th century woman, spinning her own clothes, raising animals and vegetables for food and living without electricity and water for many years.  In fact, she considered herself the reincarnation of a sea captain's wife who lived in the early 1800's.

Douglas Martin's NYT obituary of Tasha Tudor paints a poignant picture of a strong, talented, completely individual woman who lived a physically hard life by choice, but found deep contentment in the joys of gardening, nurturing her four children, and creating her art.

The Secret Garden, my favorite book illustrated by Tasha Tudor.

A Little Princess, my other favorite book.

Also, she was an avid dog lover, make that an avid Corgi lover, owning
up to 13-14 at a time and featuring them prominently in her books,
paintings, and Tasha Tudor merchandise, such as cookie cutters and
Valentine's Day kits.  (She has a whole branded website and cottage
industry and is considered the Martha Stewart of the 19th century.  I
didn't know that either.)

Corgiville Fair, Tasha Tudor's favorite book

Corgi puppy greeting cards available here.

Exclusive Corgi cookie cutter available here.

Tasha Tudor with her Corgi Megan on her 92nd birthday, August 28, 2007

Tasha Tudor, you are a true inspiration to independent, strong-willed, artistic women (many of whom read my blog) and I believe you've settled into your next life with the same spirit and drive you brought to this one.  Perhaps you're back with your sea captain or frolicking with your brothers and sisters in a pack of new Corgi pups or resting peacefully as a Daffodil bulb that will explode next spring.  Thank you for showing us what it means to live your life as a work of art!

Tasha Tudor's farm in Vermont.  Photo by Richard Brown.

Visit her Tasha Tudor and Family website to learn more about her and purchase books, prints, photos, cards, and more.