Edith Hamlin was an accomplished painter, born in Oakland, California. She atttended the California School of Fine Arts in San Francisco. The two photos below were given to me by Florence and Phyllis Hamlin. That's Edith in class in the first photo, (she's the one leaning forward left center).

Edith painted murals as a WPA artist at Mission High School in San Francisco (below), and also was chosen to paint two murals at Coit Tower. She painted a mural that hangs opposite one painted by Maynard Dixon at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix. I'll include a photo of those later...

In 1937, Edie became Mrs. Maynard Dixon. There was nearly 30 years age difference between them, but those who knew them said their love for each other was very strong.They were married in Carson City, Nevada, one of Dixon's favorite places. In the Director's cut of my film, Maynard Dixon Art and Spirit, I'm including clips from the last filmed interview with Edith. It is from a student film that was produced in 1991, the year before she passed away. Her memory was remarkably sharp, and her understanding, love and respect for Maynard Dixon is clear.

Dixon's sons, Daniel and John, both shared very fond memories of Edie. They referred to her as "Speedy Edie" because of her driving. Apparently she scared everyone to death when she got behind the wheel. Maynard didn't drive, so the kids were in for a thrill every time they rode with them!

Daniel and John both credited Edith Hamlin with preserving their Father's memory and keeping his art in the public eye. When Maynard passed away in 1946, Edie was admirably dedicated to her late husband and his legacy, she considered Dixon a true genius. I agree with her and I admire her so much for her devotion to him.

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