Persistent Women Artists

Oregon-based painter and printmaker Betty La Duke presents the lives and works of three women of diverse heritage, who--although upwards in age--continue to evolve as artists and produce fresh and meaningful work. Pablita Velarde began life 79 years ago as a member of a Pueblo Indian family in New Mexico. As she creates, she discusses the media she uses and the ethnic influences which mold her work. Asian-American Mine Okubo's contrasting moods are reflected in a diverse body of work, highlighted by material produced during her WWII internment, where she documented camp life (no cameras were allowed) in line drawings, dramatic charcoal studies and her book, Citizen 13660. Lastly, nonagenarian Lois Maibu Jones is the program's true star! Vibrant, articulate, she zestfully expounds on her work, which is heavily influenced by Haitian and African themes, but universal in its appeal. Still active, she's busy designing theater posters...and charming presidents (there's a painting in the White House). The segment on her career is worth the price alone. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (J. Reed)