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Discover the Artistry of Vera Neumann
Vera Neumann transformed textiles into vibrant canvases, blending art with everyday life. Her innovative designs continue to inspire creativity and joy in homes around the world.
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Vera’s artistic journey began in the vibrant streets of New York City, where her passion for art blossomed. From her early days as a textile designer to becoming a celebrated painter, Vera’s unique style captivated audiences worldwide. Her innovative use of color and pattern not only defined her work but also left an indelible mark on the art community.
“I’m lucky, I’ve always happened to be at the right place at the right time.”
~Vera
Milestones in
Vera's Career
For a more comprehensive understanding of Vera’s life, artistic journey, and enduring legacy as a pioneering textile designer, we encourage you to explore Vera: The Art & Life of an Icon by Susan Seid. This richly illustrated volume offers an in-depth look at Vera’s remarkable career and the vibrant body of work that continues to inspire generations.
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1907
A Visionary is Born
Vera Neumann entered the world in Stamford, Connecticut, born to Ukrainian immigrants Fanny and Meyer Salaff. From the start, her life was shaped by a blend of heritage, ambition, and an environment that fostered creativity. Little did the world know, this child—born into a land of new beginnings—would go on to revolutionize textile design, bringing color, joy, and artistry into homes and wardrobes across the globe.
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1920
A Home That Nurtured Creativity
Vera grew up in a home where artistic expression was encouraged, and her talents were nurtured from an early age. Her father, recognizing her passion, hired a sign painter to tutor her—an unconventional but inspired decision that refined her skills. Weekend trips to The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET) became a cherished tradition, where Vera absorbed the richness of art history. To fuel her dedication, her father would reward her fifty cents for every completed sketchbook—a small but meaningful investment in a future that would revolutionize the world of textile design.
1912
Inspired by Nature
Long before Vera became a household name, she was a child enchanted by the natural world. At just five years old, she would gather ferns and wild botanicals, arranging them into delicate collages—a glimpse of the artistic instincts that would later define her career. Her creativity flourished at the base of her favorite backyard chestnut tree, where she imagined herself as a woodland sprite, sketching and dreaming in her own secret world. Among her earliest muses? Daisies and sunflowers—joyful, sun-kissed motifs that would later become iconic in her designs.
1926
A Foundation in Bauhaus Principles
At just 19, Vera embarked on a journey that would shape her artistic philosophy, enrolling at The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art. Studying alongside future art-world icons like Lee Krasner, she absorbed the principles of Bauhaus design—a movement that emphasized function, form, and the marriage of fine art with everyday life. These ideas would later become the backbone of her own work, influencing everything from her signature scarves to her expansive home collections.
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1928
The Bridge Between Fine and Commercial Art
After graduating from Cooper Union, Vera continued her studies at The Traphagen School of Design, an institution known for pioneering the connection between fine art and fashion. Here, she explored the possibilities of turning artistic expression into accessible, commercial design—a concept that would define her legacy. This was where Vera’s vision crystallized: art shouldn’t just be admired—it should be lived in.
1940
A Foundation in Bauhaus Principles
Amid the bustling energy of New York City, Vera met George Neumann, an advertising executive with a keen business mind and a deep connection to textiles—his family had been prominent Hungarian textile manufacturers. Their shared appreciation for design and entrepreneurship sparked an instant connection, and before long, they were married.
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Together, they moved into a second-floor studio on 17th Street and Irving Place in Gramercy Park, an area rich with artistic energy. This modest space would become the birthplace of something extraordinary.
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1942
A Match Made in Art and Business
Vera once reflected on her partnership with George, saying, “One day, we just decided we ought to work together in some way.” It was a simple statement, but one that would set the stage for a design revolution.
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With Vera’s artistic genius and George’s business acumen, the couple set out to bring her vibrant, nature-inspired designs to textiles. In the intimate space of their home, they hand-built a silkscreen printing setup that fit on their dining room table—the humble beginnings of Printex, laying the foundation of Vera's international brand.
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1943
The Power of a Strong Team
With their creative and business foundation in place, Vera and George welcomed a key addition to their growing enterprise—Werner Hamm, a savvy salesman and recent German immigrant. His natural talent for sales quickly paid off when he secured Printex’s first major order: 1,500 placemats for the esteemed department store B. Altman & Co.
This breakthrough moment proved that Vera’s designs weren’t just beautiful—they were marketable. The demand for her fresh, artistic take on home textiles had begun, and there was no turning back.
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1945
From Small Studio to Serious Enterprise
As Printex grew, Vera, George, and Werner made a pivotal decision: it was time to formalize their company and invest in its future. Each partner contributed $1,000, a significant sum at the time, to scale operations. This move transformed Printex from a home-based creative endeavor into a structured business with a clear path for expansion.
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With a firm foundation, a strong team, and an undeniable artistic vision, Vera’s designs were on their way to becoming household staples—bringing art into everyday life, one textile at a time.
1947
A Signature Moment
As Printex gained momentum, word of Vera’s artistry began to spread beyond department stores and into the world of high-end textiles. One pivotal visit would change everything. Rene Carrillo of F. Schumacher & Co., a prestigious fabric house known for its luxury designs, toured Printex’s growing factory and was immediately captivated.
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He saw something special—not just in the vibrancy and originality of Vera’s designs, but also in the quality and craftsmanship of their production. Recognizing the potential, Carrillo struck a deal that would become a game-changer for Vera’s career. F. Schumacher & Co. agreed to provide 10,000 yards of fabric for Vera to print her debut line—a massive leap forward from Printex’s early, small-scale production.
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Thus, The Gold Coast Collection was born—Vera’s first licensing agreement, a partnership that would introduce her work to a broader audience. Even more significantly, this collection marked the official adoption of Vera’s now-iconic signature on every piece—a bold move that would make her one of the first American designers to turn a name into a brand.
1947
The Birth of an Icon: Vera’s Signature Scarf
As Printex expanded, post-war supply shortages presented a challenge—but for Vera and George, obstacles were simply opportunities in disguise. Searching for alternative materials, they stumbled upon a hidden treasure—an enormous surplus of parachute silk left over from World War II.
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Rather than see it as a limitation, Vera saw possibility. She adapted her vibrant, hand-painted designs to this lightweight, flowing fabric, unknowingly creating what would become her most iconic product: the Vera scarf.
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These early scarves were delicate, artistic, and unlike anything else on the market. Each one bore a small, understated Vera signature.
1947
Outgrowing the Studio, Expanding the Vision
With Printex flourishing and demand for Vera’s designs skyrocketing, the small New York City studio could no longer contain their growing operation. It was time for a bold next step. Seeking more space to both live and produce, Vera and George acquired The Smith Robinson House in Ossining, NY—a historic estate that would soon serve a dual purpose: their new home and a fully functional manufacturing facility.
1950
Vera’s Art Finds a Place in History
With her second collection for F. Schumacher & Co., Vera solidified her status as a designer of distinction. Among the standout patterns in this collection was Jack-in-the-Pulpit, a nature-inspired motif that perfectly captured Vera’s signature balance of boldness and elegance.
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This design didn’t just resonate with everyday collectors—it caught the eye of First Lady Bess Truman, who selected Jack-in-the-Pulpit to adorn the White House solarium. This prestigious placement was more than an honor; it was a testament to Vera’s ability to blend fine art with functional design, seamlessly elevating interiors from private homes to the nation’s most iconic residence.
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1952
Outgrowing the Studio, Expanding the Vision
After several years of enjoying Finney Farm, Vera and George decided to take their retreat to the next level. They commissioned renowned architect Marcel Breuer—a pioneer of modernist architecture—to design a home that reflected their forward-thinking aesthetic and growing art collection.
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Breuer’s signature clean lines, bold geometry, and functional elegance mirrored Vera’s design philosophy, making him the perfect choice. The resulting home was more than a residence—it was an artistic masterpiece, a space where nature, creativity, and modernism converged.
1961
A Friendship Forged in Art: Vera & Alexander Calder
Though Vera’s circle included artists, celebrities, and industry leaders, few friendships were as cherished as her close bond with the legendary sculptor Alexander Calder. Both pioneers in their fields, Vera and Calder shared a mutual appreciation for bold colors, fluid movement, and the fusion of fine and functional art.
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As a testament to their friendship, Calder surprised Vera and George with a stunning gift—a large stabile titled The Sun at Croton. This dynamic, abstract sculpture became a striking addition to the Neumanns’ Marcel Breuer-designed home at Finney Farm, seamlessly blending with the modernist aesthetic of their personal sanctuary.
1962
The Rise of an Icon
As Vera entered the 1960s, her career soared to unprecedented heights. This was the beginning of her most prolific decade, a time when her designs became synonymous with American style. From department store shelves to high-fashion circles, Vera’s work was everywhere, capturing the hearts of both celebrities and everyday women alike.
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One of her most famous admirers was Marilyn Monroe—a Hollywood legend whose effortless elegance embodied the spirit of Vera’s scarves. But Monroe was just one of millions. Across the country, American women eagerly sought out their next Vera scarf, drawn to the vibrant colors, bold prints, and signature ladybug emblem that made each piece feel like a wearable work of art.
1963
Loss and Resilience: A Turning Point for Vera
At the height of Vera’s success, tragedy struck unexpectedly. While Vera was in Mexico with George’s mother, she received devastating news—George, her husband and business partner, had passed away suddenly.
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George had been more than just her life partner—he was the strategic mind behind Vera Industries, the one who helped transform her artistic vision into a thriving business. His loss was deeply personal and profoundly professional, shaking the foundation of everything they had built together.
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In this time of heartbreak, Vera’s brother, Phillip Salaff, stepped in to help stabilize the business, ensuring that Vera Industries continued to thrive despite the loss of its co-founder. His leadership provided the necessary support and structure, allowing Vera to focus on what she did best—creating.
1967
The Sale of The Vera Companies - Expansion Through Partnership
Vera Industries continued its meteoric rise with sales in over 10,000 stores nationwide. Vera and her trusted business partner, Werner Hamm, recognized that scaling the brand to meet its growing demand required additional resources. To ensure the company’s future success, they made the strategic decision to sell The Vera Companies to Manhattan Industries in 1967.
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This move allowed Vera’s designs to reach an even broader audience, expanding into more department stores, boutiques, and international markets. But while ownership changed, Vera’s vision remained firmly in place—both she and Werner joined the board of Manhattan Industries, ensuring that the integrity of the brand was maintained.
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1969
Vera for the Home: A Bedroom Revolution
By the late 1960s, Vera’s bold, joyful prints had already taken over the worlds of fashion and accessories, but in 1969, she made another major leap—this time into home décor. Through a licensing partnership with Burlington Home, Vera expanded her influence beyond scarves and table linens, bringing her signature style into American bedrooms across the country.
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​With this collaboration, bedding and linens infused with Vera’s vibrant patterns became a household staple. At a time when home décor was undergoing a transformation, Vera’s designs brought energy, optimism, and artistry to everyday living spaces. Floral bursts, geometric abstracts, and sun-drenched hues turned ordinary bedrooms into personalized expressions of joy—a hallmark of Vera’s philosophy.
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This partnership was more than just an expansion of her product line—it was a reflection of Vera’s belief that art should be lived in. Through Burlington Home, her work was was woven into the fabric of daily life, allowing Americans to wake up wrapped in art.
1971
A Celebration of Art and Legacy: Vera’s First Solo Exhibition
By 1971, Vera had built an empire of color and creativity, revolutionizing textile design, fashion, and home décor. To mark 25 years of business success, she turned her attention back to her roots—as a fine artist—and launched her first solo art exhibition at the prestigious Emile Walter Galleries in New York City.
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A Star-Studded Collector Base Vera’s joyful, nature-inspired works caught the attention of some of the era’s most influential figures. Among her new collectors were:
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John Lennon – The music icon and artist himself, drawn to Vera’s playful and modern aesthetic.
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Joan Crawford – The Hollywood legend, known for her impeccable taste, added Vera’s work to her personal collection.
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Arlene Francis – The beloved television personality, captivated by Vera’s vibrant, life-affirming style.
1972
A Salute to Vera: Honored by The Smithsonian
By 1972, Vera was not only a household name but also recognized as a visionary artist and designer whose influence transcended fashion and home décor. That year, she was invited to inaugurate The Smithsonian’s Resident Associate Program, a prestigious honor that acknowledged her impact on American design, art, and culture.
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​During her Smithsonian residency, Vera was also commissioned to create The Foucault Pendulum, a work that once again showcased her ability to blend art, science, and motion—a natural evolution of her design philosophy, which was always inspired by movement, nature, and structure.
1974
A Young Talent Joins Vera: Perry Ellis and the Birth of Portfolio
By the mid-1970s, The Vera Companies had solidified its place as a powerhouse of American design, selling products in over 20,000 stores worldwide and surpassing the unimaginable milestone of $100,000,000 in annual sales. With these achievements, Vera Industries started attracting top talent in the fashion and textile industry. Among those who joined the company was a young and ambitious Perry Ellis, who started as a marketing manager in 1974.
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However, Ellis’ sharp eye for design, color, and pattern quickly set him apart. Within just a few years, he rose to become the lead designer for Portfolio, a sophisticated extension of Vera’s brand that catered to a modern, fashion-forward clientele.
1975
Vera: Celebrating Three Decades of Artistic Innovation
In 1975, the Fashion Institute of Technology's Museum honored Vera with a retrospective exhibition titled "Vera: The Artist in Industry 1945–1975." This comprehensive showcase celebrated three decades of Vera's groundbreaking work, highlighting her unique ability to blend art with industry. ​
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The exhibition underscored Vera's philosophy that art should be accessible to all. By transforming her original paintings into functional designs, she democratized art, allowing everyday consumers to experience beauty in their daily lives. This approach not only revolutionized textile design but also set a precedent for future artist-driven brands.​
1980
Vera’s Story is Told
By 1978, Vera’s legacy was firmly established—her designs had graced homes, wardrobes, and even the White House, and her name was synonymous with accessible, joyful art. That year, her remarkable journey was documented in the book "The Millionairess: Self-Made Women of America" by Lois Rich-McCoy, which highlighted pioneering women who had built their success from the ground up.
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Vera’s inclusion in The Millionairess highlighted her status as a self-made success story—a woman who, through art, ingenuity, and entrepreneurial spirit, built an empire that transcended fashion and home decor.
At a time when female entrepreneurs were still breaking barriers, Vera stood as a role model, proving that passion, talent, and vision could create a lasting legacy.
With this book, Vera’s story reached beyond her designs, celebrating her as an artist, businesswoman, and cultural icon.
1980
A Retrospective in Her Honor
By 1980, Vera’s influence in the world of textile and fashion design had spanned decades, transforming the way people engaged with color, pattern, and everyday art. That year, the Goldie Paley Design Center at the Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science honored her legacy with a retrospective exhibition titled "Celebrate the Seasons of the Sun with Vera."
"Celebrate the Seasons of the Sun with Vera" reinforced what had already become clear—Vera was more than a designer. She was an artist, a visionary, and a pioneer who made art not only wearable and livable but also timeless.
1981
A Lifetime of Achievement: Vera’s Continued Dedication to Art & Design
By 1981, Vera had already built an extraordinary career—one that blended fine art, textile innovation, and entrepreneurship in a way that few had ever done before. That year, she received two major honors recognizing her lifelong contributions to design and creativity:
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An honorary doctorate from The Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science, celebrating her influence on the textile industry and the generations of designers she had inspired.
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A citation from Cooper Union, her alma mater, acknowledging her groundbreaking work in bringing Bauhaus principles into everyday design.
1988
A New Chapter for The Vera Companies
After more than four decades of groundbreaking design and business success, Vera saw her company change hands once again. In 1988, Manhattan Industries was sold to Salant Corporation, a move that included The Vera Companies as part of the acquisition. This shift marked the end of an era, as Printex—the original foundation of Vera’s business—was closed.
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While the corporate landscape of her brand evolved, Vera’s influence remained firmly intact. Her name, signature, and unmistakable artistic vision had become woven into the fabric of American design history, ensuring that her legacy would outlive any business transaction.
1993
A Life Lived in Color: The Passing of Vera - The Final Brushstroke
At age 85, after a lifetime dedicated to art, innovation, and bringing beauty into the world, Vera passed away peacefully in Sleepy Hollow, NY. Even in her final days, rumors swirled that she painted until the very last moment—a fitting tribute to a woman whose passion for creativity never wavered.
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For Vera, art was not a job, nor a career—it was simply who she was. From her early childhood sketches beneath a chestnut tree to the millions of scarves, textiles, and home designs that bore her signature, she never stopped creating. Her belief that art should be lived in, worn, and celebrated every day remains her most enduring legacy.
“Vera’s final masterpiece was not a painting or a textile—it was the life she created, filled with boundless creativity, passion, and an unwavering belief that art belongs to everyone.”
Greg Sharp, President & Brand Manager, Vera Neumann, Inc. (VNI)
Vera's Legacy Continues
Preservation and Digitization Efforts
In 2024, VNI worked on preserving and cataloging Vera’s work, ensuring her designs remain accessible and influential.
SCAD Museum of Art
VNI and The Vera Neumann Artwork Trust donated drawings, prints, and scarves to the Vera & Friends exhibition, highlighting her impact on American design.
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
Donations enriched the museum’s collection, reflecting Vera’s innovative textile work.
Discover the Artistic Legacy of Vera Neumann: A Design Pioneer
A Treasure Trove of Designs
Vera meticulously preserved a sample of each scarf design in every colorway, ensuring quality and consistency. For the first time, these unworn archival pieces are now available, delighting collectors and new admirers alike.
2024 – "Vera Paints Happiness" Exhibition
The Hamptons Fine Art Fair showcased over 75 of Vera’s original works, highlighting her vibrant florals, sunbursts, and geometric prints. The exhibition received critical acclaim, celebrating her enduring influence on fashion and design.
2025 – Palm Springs Modernism Week
VNI debuted a special exhibition featuring Vera’s original artworks and archival scarves. Over 1,000 vintage samples sold, proving the lasting appeal of her designs at this premier mid-century modern event.
2025 – SCAD Museum of Art: "Vera & Friends"
This exhibition paired Vera’s iconic scarves with contemporary designs by Massif Central, showcasing her impact on the intersection of art and fashion. A panel discussion explored her influence on today’s textile industry.
2025 – The Renaissance Collection
VNI introduced a limited-edition series of scarves inspired by Vera’s Gold Piece Collection and Smithsonian retrospective. Featuring the fan-favorite "Sundown" design, each scarf is part of a 250-piece exclusive release.
2025 – New Book Release: "Vera: Art, Adaptation, and the American Dream"
Authored by Greg Sharp and Fred Salaff, this book explores Vera’s artistic journey, her impact on American design, and her legacy as a pioneering female entrepreneur.
Book Overview
Vera: Art, Adaptation, and the American Dream" delves into the life and legacy of Vera, exploring her journey as a visionary artist who transformed modern design by blending creativity with entrepreneurship. The book offers an inspiring exploration of her extraordinary life, highlighting her contributions to American art and design.
About the Book
This book explores Vera’s journey as a visionary artist, blending creativity with entrepreneurship.
1972 Documentary
Features insights from Vera Paints Ibiza in the Sun, capturing her creative process in Spain.
The Art of Vera
Vera Neumann’s artistic journey began in the vibrant world of textile design, where her passion for color and pattern flourished. Born in 1907, she transformed the fabric landscape with her bold designs that captured the essence of mid-century modern aesthetics. Her work not only adorned homes but also became a staple in fashion, showcasing her versatility as an artist.
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Throughout her career, Vera’s innovative spirit led her to experiment with various mediums, including painting and printmaking. She believed that art should be accessible to everyone, which is why she sought to bring her creations into everyday life. Her iconic scarves and table linens became beloved household items, each telling a story through its intricate designs.
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Vera’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship set her apart in a competitive industry. She collaborated with skilled artisans, ensuring that each piece reflected her high standards. This dedication earned her a loyal following, as customers appreciated not just the beauty of her work, but the heart and soul she infused into every design.
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As a pioneer in the world of art and design, Vera Neumann’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists. Her ability to blend art with functionality has left an indelible mark on the industry, proving that creativity knows no bounds. Today, her works are celebrated in galleries and homes alike, reminding us of the joy that art can bring to our lives.
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Join us in exploring the enchanting world of Vera Neumann, where art meets everyday elegance. Discover how her unique vision transformed the landscape of design and continues to resonate with art lovers around the globe.