Sonia Delaunay (Russian 1885-1979)
One of the most brilliant designer-decorators of the century. She received her first commission for fabric design in 1923 from Lyon firm and later produced her own fabrics for famous actresses, these, being now produced by St Laurent, Cardin and Dior.
In 1930 she decided to concentrate on painting, exhibiting widely with groups devoted to abstract art.
Awarded Grand Prix at the International Salon for Women, Cannes, 1969 and Grand Prix de la Ville de Paris in 1973.
She was the first woman artist to have an exhibition at the Louvre during her life-time thereby establishing her unique position.