Mimi B

Mimi and Robert seemed to have a spiritual connection. They had a special relationship–when Robert has a piece he doesn't really know what to do with, he thinks, "What would M do?" Mimi's story is very interesting. She was an avid collector of textiles and fashions. She collected all styles and periods, and any particularly interesting textile materials.

She was Jewish, and her father was a very successful lawyer in New York. He had some very well-known and famous clients, including a dictator in South America. She had a very "elegant" childhood, which included playing in the palace. Her step-grandfather was Weist, of Weist Jewelry. He made her jewelry to "play with." Mimi went to school in New York City, School of Arts, where she met her future husband, a Gentile. Her family didn't approve. They officially disowned her, even having a funeral and burying her when she married her husband, John.

John was an art student/artist as well, and Mimi never wanted to overshadow his work. They were married for 40 years or more, and he always called her "his bride." Mimi needed something to fill her time, so she began collecting textiles. She had probably one of the largest collection of paisley shawls, and quilts in the U.S.