The contemporary craft legacy of John W. and Marilyn L. Barrett
Jack and Marilyn Barrett were devoted collectors of contemporary crafts. They lived in Bethesda, MD, where they were dedicated members of the James Renwick Alliance.
Ceramics were a particular passion, with works by Robert Arneson, Rick Dillingham, Karen Karnes, Ken Price, Toshiko Takaezu, and Peter Voulkos in their collection. They were also enthusiastic patrons of John Cedarquist, acquiring several of his large-scale functional cabinets and trompe l'oeil chairs. They collected several works by Gary Knox Bennett, one of which is in the collection of the Museum of Art and Design, New York. Fiber was also a significant interest, including Lia Cook, Dominic Demare, John McQueen, Jon Eric Riis, and Ed Rossbach. Their glass collection includes early work by Mark Peiser and Dale Chihuly.
Jack Barrett passed away from bladder cancer April 15, 2011. Marilyn suffered a stroke and passed away July 7, 2011. They are survived by daughter Amanda and remembered fondly in the craft community.
You are welcome to leave remembrances below (though you must have a Facebook account to do so).