Claire Fejes facts for kids

Claire Specht Fejes (December 14, 1920 – October 1998) was an American artist. She was known for her paintings and sketches of Alaska Native people. She also wrote books about her adventures and life in Alaska.

Early Life and Education

Claire Specht Fejes was born in New York City, USA. Her parents came from Poland and Austria.

She studied art at several places. She learned about anatomy, stone-carving, and sculpture. Her training took place at the Newark Museum, the Newark Fine Arts School, and the Students' Art League. These studies were part of the Works Progress Administration, a program that helped people find work during tough economic times.

Life and Art in Alaska

In 1942, Claire married Joe Fejes. Four years later, in 1946, they moved to Fairbanks, Alaska. Her husband went there to work in gold mining.

In Alaska, Claire found inspiration for her art. She created many sketches and paintings of the local people. These included the Iñupiat and Athabascans, who are Alaska Native groups.

Besides her artwork, Claire Fejes also became a writer. She wrote books that shared stories about her travels and experiences living in Alaska.

Claire and Joe had two children. Their son, Mark, also became an artist. They also had a daughter named Yolande.

Where to See Her Art

Claire Fejes's artwork is displayed in several important museums. You can find her pieces in the Anchorage Museum and the Frye Art Museum. Her art is also held at the University of Michigan Museum of Art and the Blanton Museum of Art.

Other places that show her work include the University of Alaska Museum of the North and the National Portrait Gallery. In Fairbanks, her art is also on display at the Fairbanks North Star Borough Public Library.

Later Years

During her last ten years, Claire Fejes divided her time. She spent the winters in New York City and San Diego. Her summers were spent back in Fairbanks, Alaska, the place that inspired much of her work.