Guide to the Dorothy Brett Collection

Arrangement

The Brett Collection is grouped according to type of material, with each correspondence series organized chronologically. Brett's letters to John Middleton Murry (1922-1948) and Leland H. Roloff (1965-1969) are in separate folders. The diaries and typescripts are each in separate folders.

Scope and Content note

The correspondence, diaries and typescripts in this collection were written by Dorothy Brett between 1922 and 1969. They reflect Brett's artistic focus, especially her fascination with Native American Pueblo culture which began on a visit to Taos, New Mexico in 1924. The materials fall into two chronological periods: those written from 1922-1948 which include her Bloomsbury friendships, and the written dialogue with Leland H. Roloff from 1965-1969 for the publication of her autobiography for which he prepared a foreword.

Correspondence to John Middleton Murry between 1922-1948 includes discussions about Katherine Mansfield, Frieda and D.H. Lawrence, painting, and life in New Mexico.The correspondence and interviews between 1965-1969 with Leland H. Roloff as part of the process for the publication of her autobiography included such topics as painting, Brett's deafness, and various reminiscences. Roloff's foreword to Brett's biography and his interview with Brett and John Manchester are also part of the collection.

Typescripts in the collection often have corrections in Brett's hand. Included are Brett's "America," "To the White Rose: My Strange and Beautiful Journey," (2 versions), "Christmas Morning," selections from her notebook, and an untitled memoir. Roloff's foreword to Brett's biography and his interview with Brett and John Manchester are also part of the collection.

Photocopies of various photographs, information about the Brett family in England, and a photocopy of Carrington's "The Tale and Doings of the Most Wonderous and Valiant Brett" were also part of Leland H. Roloff's gift.