THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT! The program will be recorded and the link will be posted on our website.

Co-Sponsored by Lake Forest Preservation Foundation and the History Center. The program will take place at the History Center, 509 E. Deerpath in Lake Forest. $10 per member/ $20 per non-member of either organization.

Scott Powell, author of Frances Elkins: Visionary American Designer (Rizzoli, 2023), will discuss the career of interior designer Frances Adler Elkins (1887-1953). While showcasing some of Elkins's work in California and New York, this presentation will place particular emphasis on her commissions on the North Shore and in Chicago. Many of the leading Chicago families were her clients, including Palmer, Armour, Cudahy, Blair, Ely, Shedd, Ryerson, McCormick, Hertz, Mandel, and Wrigley.

Many rare and never-seen images will illustrate the prolific association with her architect brother David Adler on local country houses and city apartments, as well as Elkins's decor for country clubs, hotels and offices. Photos shown will convey Elkins's ability to deftly merge classical architecture and antiques with elements of French modernism and the Art Deco style, her fresh sense of color, her mastery of texture and pattern, and her understanding of comfort and functionality.

Since 2002, Scott Powell has been researching the career of Frances Elkins. He has documented over 250 Elkins commissions, many of them previously unknown. His research includes close contact with existing Elkins family members and clients, ongoing review of her project files and several photo archives throughout the U.S., and visits to several extant Elkins commissions on the West Coast. His interest in Elkins has also led to the acquisition of furniture, textiles, wall coverings and many unpublished period photographs related to her 35-year career.

Copies of his book, Frances Elkins: Visionary American Designer will be available for purchase and signing following the presentation.