Google Doodle honours Altina Schinasi, designer of cat-eye glasses, on birth anniversary
Altina Schinasi's artistic journey began with her studies in painting in Paris, where she cultivated a passion for art. She died in August 1999, in New Mexico.
On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Altina Schinasi, Google Doodle commemorates the life and achievements of the American artist, designer, and inventor. Born in Manhattan, New York, in 1907, Altina Schinasi's innovative spirit and determination reshaped the world of eyewear fashion, leaving behind an enduring legacy.
3 things you need to know
- Altina Schinasi revolutionized fashion with her iconic cat-eye eyewear.
- Her perseverance led to the success of the Harlequin frames.
- Google commemorates her birth anniversary with a special Doodle.
From painting in Paris to window dressing on fifth avenue
Altina Schinasi's artistic journey began with her studies in painting in Paris, where she cultivated a passion for art. Upon her return to the US, she honed her skills further at The Art Students League in New York. However, fate had other plans for her, leading her to become a window dresser for prestigious stores on Fifth Avenue. This exposure to the world of design and collaboration with influential artists sparked the fire of creativity within her.
(Altina Schinasi were passionate about art | Image: Resshcloudinary)
How did Schinasi's cat-eye frame revolutionize eyewear fashion?
The breakthrough moment came when she noticed the lack of stylish options for women's eyewear while working as a window display designer. Drawing inspiration from the Harlequin masks worn during the Carnevale festival in Venice, Italy, Schinasi conceived the iconic cat-eye frame. She believed the pointed edges of the masks would beautifully frame a woman's face and revolutionize the world of eyewear fashion.
(She draw inspiration from Harlequin masks worn during the Carnevale festival in Venice, Italy | Image: Ressh.cloudinary)
Her groundbreaking invention initially faced rejections from major manufacturers, but Schinasi's perseverance paid off when a local shop owner recognized the potential of her design. The Harlequin glasses quickly gained popularity, becoming a sought-after fashion accessory for women in the late 1930s and 1940s. The cat-eye frames became synonymous with elegance and femininity, making a lasting impact on the fashion industry.
The success of her eyewear design brought her widespread recognition, including the prestigious Lord & Taylor American Design Award in 1939. Featured in renowned magazines like Vogue and Life, Schinasi cemented her position as a trailblazer in the fashion world.
Schinasi's journey into filmmaking and art therapy
However, her creative pursuits did not end there. Altina Schinasi delved into filmmaking, producing the acclaimed documentary George Grosz' Interregnum in 1960. The film, exploring the life and work of her former teacher and mentor George Grosz, earned an Academy Award nomination and won first place at the Venice Film Festival.
As she aged, Schinasi's creativity knew no bounds. She authored her memoir, The Road I Have Traveled, in 1995, providing insights into her extraordinary life and achievements. Additionally, she volunteered as an art therapist, using her passion for art to make a positive impact on others' lives.
Beyond eyewear and film, Schinasi's inventive mind also led her to create unique portrait chairs and benches named Chairacters, further showcasing her multifaceted talent as an artist and inventor.
Published By : Digital Desk
Published On: 4 August 2023 at 09:23 IST