Kelly Cobb, the Wharton Esherick Museum’s current Artist-in-Residence, has focused her research on the understudied creative legacy of Letty Nofer Esherick, the dynamic artist, dancer, and educator who married Wharton in 1912. Kelly’s project, Working at a Joyous Creative Thing, explores original textiles by Letty Esherick in the museum’s collection to reframe Letty’s legacy within a broader narrative of artistic ambition, gendered labor, and creative resilience. Cobb is among the first scholars to study this collection of textiles that includes garments, weaving samples, and works in progress. In this talk, Kelly Cobb will be sharing many insights from her research, including archival discoveries, field studies at sites like Penland School of Crafts and Family Heirloom Weavers, and the new pieces created in collaboration with contemporary artists inspired by Letty’s story. 

Cobb’s research talk will take place in the 1956 Workshop at 2:00PM. From 1:30-2:00PM visitors can explore Kelly Cobb’s installation on display in the Visitor Center as well as the Main Gallery of Wharton Esherick’ 1926 Studio.

Kelly Cobb is an Associate Professor of Fashion and Apparel Studies at The University of Delaware. Her research program examines the complexities inherent in apparel and textile supply chains through creative project-based work that seeks to reintegrate the wearer of clothes to local trades and economies, restoring integrity and kinship to the origins of materials and to the environmental resources and human labor involved in textile and apparel production.

Tickets are Limited:

$30 per person

$20 for WEM members – Join or renew today to purchase your ticket at this special price!