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Betty Dawson Papers

 Collection
Identifier: MSS-016

Scope and Contents Note

The Betty Dawson Papers, dated 1983-2008, contains correspondence, photographs, newspaper and magazine clippings, DVDs, exhibition invitations and notices, and other miscellaneous material. The items relate exclusively to Kansas artist, Elizabeth Layton, and were received or collected by Betty Dawson.

Dates

  • Creation: 1983-2008

Restrictions on Access

Open to researchers. Appointments are necessary for the use of manuscript and archival collections.

Conditions Governing Use Note

Notification of intent to publish, quote, or cite archival materials is required. Contact the archives via https://nelson-atkins.org/library/.

Biographical / Historical Note

In 1983, Betty Dawson read a story about Kansas artist, Elizabeth Layton, in the Kansas City Star and decided that she wanted to learn more about her. To that end, she took three continuing education courses at Johnson County Community College and there she met Layton's daughter, Kay Russell, who suggested that Dawson write to Layton to get a copy of Layton's drawing, On the Death of a Child. That request began a friendship between Dawson and the artist which lasted until Layton's death in 1993.

Extent

0.4 Linear Feet (In one legal document case.)

Language of Materials

English

Abstract

The Betty Dawson Papers, dated 1983-2008, primarily contains correspondence, photographs, newspaper and magazine clippings, DVDs, and other miscellaneous materials related to Kansas artist, Elizabeth Layton.

Organization

The collection has been organized into four series: Correspondence (Series I); Photographs (Series II); Articles (Series III); and Miscellaneous (Series IV). The series have been arranged chronologically.

Immediate Source of Acquisition Note

Gift; accession number associated with this collection is 2008-01.

Accruals Note

Additions to this collection are not anticipated.

Related Materials Note

Elizabeth Layton Papers (MSS 017)

Title
Finding Aid of the Betty Dawson Collection, MSS016
Description rules
Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin

Repository Details

Part of the The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Archives Repository

Contact:
4525 Oak St.
Kansas City MO 64111 United States
816-751-1354