By Ersilia Pompilio
If you're seeking a dose of mid-century magic this Modernism Week in Palm Springs, look no further than the Rubine Red Gallery's latest exhibit: The Art Behind the Scarf. A dazzling tribute to the incredible legacy of Vera Neumann, this exhibit showcases original watercolors by the Bauhaus-trained artist, spanning from the 1940s to the 1980s.
Step into the gallery and you’re immediately enveloped in color and creativity. Watercolor paintings, carefully crafted by Vera herself, hang on the walls, while trunks overflow with scarves that are, quite literally, wearable art. Each piece is a burst of expression, combining Vera’s love of nature, geometry, and bold hues.
Greg Sharp, owner and President of Vera Neumann Inc., reflects on Vera’s revolutionary impact, holding up one of her famous scarves in the midst of the exhibit. “She was known simply as 'Vera'—before Vera Wang, before Vera Moda,” he muses. “And these scarves? They're not just accessories. They’re works of art.” Indeed, each scarf carries Vera’s signature in bold script, serving as a brand logo that has become synonymous with quality and style. The Art Behind the Scarf debuted in June 2024 in the Hamptons, and now Palm Springs has the honor of experiencing Vera’s artistry firsthand.
The Birth of the Iconic Scarf
Vera Neumann’s journey began in her New York apartment, where she, alongside her husband, began experimenting with screen-printed silk scarves based on her watercolor paintings. What began as a small endeavor soon became a fashion revolution. Vera’s scarves were more than just accessories—they were a statement, a fusion of fine art and fashion that spoke to women who wanted to wear something truly unique. Her designs were vibrant and graphic, showcasing florals, abstract patterns, and playful creatures like butterflies, birds, and cats.
Her use of silk was revolutionary. While most scarves at the time were muted in color or design, Vera’s scarves were an explosion of hues, each one more captivating than the last. The luxurious fabric combined with her striking designs made these scarves more than just fashion accessories—they became a means of self-expression. By the 1950s, Vera’s scarves were beloved by women of all walks of life, cementing her place as a cultural icon.
Vera’s genius lay not only in her designs but in her keen sense of branding. She was one of the first designers to make her signature a central feature of her scarves, using the simple yet impactful “Vera” written in bold, handwritten script. Her name became synonymous with elegance, quality, and an artistic flair that was all her own.
Art That Enriches Lives
Vera Neumann’s scarves seem timeless, as if they’ve transcended decades, forever capturing the essence of beauty and innovation. Perhaps it’s because Vera herself was a visionary, a woman ahead of her time. One of her most famous pieces, the ladybug design, was inspired by Asian art and became a symbol of good luck—reflecting her belief in the power of art to inspire and enrich lives.
But Vera wasn’t just an artist—she was a trailblazing entrepreneur. One of the most successful female entrepreneurs of her era, she was the first woman in the U.S. to earn $100 million. She built an empire based on her belief that people should surround themselves with beauty and that art should be part of everyday life. Her designs didn’t just belong in galleries; they belonged in homes, on bodies, and in hearts.
Her influence spread far beyond scarves. Vera’s art has been licensed by major brands like Target, Revlon, and Clinique, allowing her vibrant designs to reach new audiences across different industries. In fact, her iconic scarves recently made an appearance on the set of And Just Like That, where one was used to decorate the newly remodeled apartment of Carrie Bradshaw.
Don't Miss the Show
If you’re in Palm Springs, The Art Behind the Scarf: Vera Neumann Trunk Show is a must-see. Immerse yourself in the colorful world of one of the most innovative artists of the 20th century and discover how Vera Neumann’s art continues to inspire and captivate. Vera’s scarfs are also available for purchase.
The exhibit will be on display at the Rubine Red Gallery, located at 668 N. Palm Canyon Drive, until March 8, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to experience the art and history behind the scarf—where fashion and creativity unite in a celebration of timeless beauty.
About the Author
Ersilia Pompilio is the Editor in Chief of SQUAD Magazine, a Palm Springs guide for bachelorettes and ladies who love to leisure. With over two decades of experience in performing, producing live storytelling shows, and hosting a podcast, she has also taught storytelling classes and written professionally for several media outlets. Originally from Los Angeles, Ersilia is also a twenty-year resident of Palm Springs, California.
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