Ep 5. Packed In A Trunk: The Lost Art of Edith Lake Wilkinson

Packed In A Trunk: The Lost Art of Edith Lake Wilkinson is a heartwarming and poignant documentary about the life and work of artist Edith Lake Wilkinson, a talented painter from America who lived in the early part of the twentieth century.

The episode follows the journey of Edith's great-niece, Jane Anderson, as she uncovers the life and work of her long-lost relative. Jane sets out on a mission to find Edith's artwork, which was packed away in trunks and left in an attic for decades.

Through a series of interviews with family members, art historians, and archival footage and photographs, the episode paints a vivid picture of Edith's life and struggle. Edith suffered from mental illness and was institutionalized for much of her life. Despite this, she continued to create art, which was highly praised by her instructors at the Art Students League of New York.

The episode explores the many obstacles Edith faced as a woman and a lesbian artist in a highly conservative and male-dominated society. Her artwork, which was often abstract and experimental, was not well-received by the art establishment of the time.

As Jane delves deeper into her great-aunt's life, she uncovers a fascinating and heartbreaking story of talent, loss, and perseverance. Through her journey, Jane comes to realize the importance of preserving Edith's art and legacy.

The episode features a range of Edith's artwork, including striking portraits, landscapes, and abstract pieces. The paintings showcase Edith's unique artistic vision and her ability to capture the essence of her subjects with bold brushstrokes and vivid colors.

Overall, Packed In A Trunk: The Lost Art of Edith Lake Wilkinson is an inspiring and moving documentary that highlights the importance of artists like Edith, who were once forgotten but whose work deserves recognition and celebration.