Exploring the Lives and Legacies of Remarkable Artists in Taos : Dorothy Eugenie Brett
Dorothy Eugenie Brett, known simply as “Brett,” was a British-American artist whose creative legacy continues to resonate in Taos, New Mexico, and beyond. Born into an aristocratic British family, she spent her early years immersed in literary and artistic circles, associating with figures like Virginia Woolf, Aldous Huxley, Katherine Mansfield, and fellow artist Dora Carrington. Yet, it wasn’t until she moved to Taos in 1924 that Brett truly found the home that would shape both her art and her personal identity.
Taos: A New Beginning
Brett's arrival in Taos was a turning point in her life, not just geographically, but creatively. She had left behind a tumultuous and grief-stricken life in England, seeking renewal in the stark beauty of the New Mexican landscape. Accompanied by the renowned writer D.H. Lawrence and his wife, Frieda, she first lived on the D.H. Lawrence Ranch, where the writer and Brett would forge a bond that would deeply influence her development as an artist.
Despite the bohemian atmosphere and intellectual fervor of the Taos art colony, Brett remained deeply grounded in her pursuit of authenticity and spiritual connection. In her own words, she sought to capture the essence of life itself through her art, not simply as a representation of the world but as a means to express deeper connections between humanity, nature, and the cosmos. Brett’s art was profoundly influenced by her connection to the Taos Pueblo Indians, a community she respected and with whom she forged lifelong friendships.
Unlike many artists of the time who portrayed Native Americans as "noble savages," Brett aimed to depict them more holistically, focusing on their inner lives as well as their outer appearances. This respectful approach was not only a reflection of her artistic integrity but also of her understanding and respect for the cultures and landscapes around her.
Mentorship and Support in Taos
Brett’s journey as an artist was also marked by the crucial mentorship and support she received from strong women in the Taos community, particularly Mabel Dodge Luhan. Mabel, known for her support of avant-garde artists, took Brett under her wing, introducing her to the New York art scene and encouraging her to believe in her own talent. Through Mabel’s guidance and connections—such as her introduction to photographer Alfred Stieglitz—Brett gained the confidence to push her boundaries and showcase her work in major cultural centers.
Brett’s relationship with Mabel was complex, with the two women clashing at times, notably over Brett’s dog’s unruly behavior. However, it was Mabel’s unwavering support that helped Brett break through her insecurities and reach new heights in her career. It was Mabel who also encouraged Brett to paint Leopold Stokowski’s portrait, a project that became a pivotal moment in her artistic journey, not for its financial reward but for the confidence it gave her in her own abilities.
Art, Spirituality, and Connection
Brett’s paintings were more than just representations—they were a quest to understand the interconnectedness of life. Her work, especially in her later years, sought to reveal the spiritual unity of all things, influenced by both her personal experiences and the teachings she found within the Taos Pueblo community. In her words, she wanted to show how "everything is connected: people, animals, earth, sky."
She described her work as an effort to inspire beauty and hope in the world, particularly in contrast to the often grim and hopeless expressions of modern art. Brett’s commitment to hopefulness, beauty, and connection is evident in the portraits and landscapes she created, where she attempted to capture not only the physical likeness but also the inner energy and spirit of her subjects.
Even as she reached her later years, Brett continued to paint with the same fervor, believing that the act of creation was a vital expression of her inner life. Her vision of the interconnectedness of all things remains a testament to the powerful influence of Taos on her artistic and spiritual evolution.
The Remarkable Women of Taos
Dorothy Brett’s story is also a story of community—of the remarkable women and men who supported, mentored, and challenged one another in the creative oasis of Taos. From Mabel Dodge Luhan’s nurturing guidance to the quiet yet profound influence of the Taos Pueblo Indians, Brett found both the freedom and the encouragement to forge her own path as an artist.
Brett’s influence on Taos is undeniable. She contributed to the artistic landscape of the region while also helping to shape the cultural legacy that continues to draw artists, writers, and creatives from around the world. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of place, community, and self-discovery. As she once said, "Taos is a place for seers, for visual folk," and for Brett, it was the ultimate source of inspiration and renewal.
If you’re considering a move to Taos, or simply curious about the vibrant artistic community that inspired so many, I’d love to help you explore the area. From homes in the historic Taos Pueblo region to stunning properties with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, there's a place here for every dream and every artist.
Ready to make Taos your creative home? Let’s connect and start your journey in this inspiring town.
