Neoterics (March 1935[1]) This group of “individualists” had their own special exhibition room at Findlay Galleries.[2] Their purpose as exhibiting artists was to, “Keep intact their integrity as individualists, observe with their own eyes, record what they see without bowing to any ‘isms’ or seeking favor through any art politics.”[3] The executive committee (and founders) was comprised of Anita Venier Alexander, President; Helga Haugan Dean, secretary; Macena Barton, treasurer.[4] They followed the first show with an autumn 1935 show which was again reviewed by supporter and critic C. J. Bulliet.[5] The next show held was spring 1936.[6]

[1]Clarence J. Bulliet, “Bulliet’s Artless Comment,” Chicago Daily News, 3/23/1935, Art & Antiques Section, p.11. Bulliet quoted Webster’s Dictionary as stating the name meant: “recent in origin; modern; new, said of things and persons.”

[2]The first show was held in May 1935 at Findlay. C. J. Bulliet, “Around the Galleries: Neoterics May 15,” Chicago Daily News, 5/4/1935, Art, Antiques and The Artists section, p.11. It was further reviewed by Bulliet in “The Neoterics Launched,” in the 5/18/1935 issue, p.9. Eleanor Jewett, “Art Galleries Offer Variety in New Shows,” Chicago Tribune, 5/17/1935, p.25.

[3]C. J. Bulliet, “Around the Galleries: Neoterics on Their Way,” Chicago Daily News, 11/2/1935, Art, Antiques and The Artists section, section 3, p.4.

[4]Op. cit., Bulliet, Chicago Daily News, 3/23/1935, p.11.

[5]Op. cit., Bulliet, Chicago Daily News, 11/2/1935, sec. 3, p.4. See also: Eleanor Jewett, “News of Interest to Lovers of Art,” Chicago Tribune, 10/6/1935, part 8, p.6, and “Second Show of Neoterics a Good One,” 11/5/1935, p.13.

[6]C. J. Bulliet, “Around the Galleries: Neoterics Spring Show,” Chicago Daily News, 5/9/1936, Art, Antiques and The Artists section, p.4R. Eleanor Jewett, “The Neoterics Hold Another Good Exhibition,” Chicago Tribune, 5/9/1936, p.19.