Unsung heroines: Women patrons and the development of modernism in America

This thesis addresses the question as to the role of women as art patrons from 1871 through the mid-1900s. Important women patrons have been largely ignored by history. The lives and roles of six women who made catalytic contributions to the development of modernism in America are examined: Louisine Havemeyer, who helped introduce Impressionism to America; Elizabeth Coolidge, who introduced chamber music to the American public; Gertrude Whittall, who supported free public concerts and early broadcasting of chamber music; Katherine Dreier, who pioneered traveling exhibits support for the Avant Garde; and Gertrude Whitney and Juliana Force, who provide critical support to contemporary artists. These women provided visionary support for the arts. They broke from the traditional roles for women of their times as well as the traditional tastes of their times. They were leaders in arts patronage and social change, but maintained their positions in their social circles. They affected great change through thoughtful and deliberate philanthropy.