The Gilgore Italian Art Collection, 1850 - 1925

19th CENTURY ITALIAN ART COLLECTION
of
Dr. Sheldon G. Gilgore & Irma Gilgore 

"Yesterday, I attended a lecture by Irma Gilgore at her museum of 19th century Italian art here in Naples, FL.  It is a grand, elegant, contemporary museum and located in Eagle Creek of Naples . . . .  just three short miles north of me here in Fiddler's Creek of Naples.   I've lived here for over eight years now but only learned of this museum and Irma last fall after Karl's passing.

It was then that I talked with Irma by phone.  ( Irma is a wonderful contemporary/abstract artist and her work is shown in New York City at Walter Wickiser Gallery).  At the time, another artist had recently told me about Irma, the museum and that Irma was a recent widow too.  Irma offered kind words of encouragement to me but those days were just too dark and bleak.

It was just last week, when I was so downhearted, called Irma and she invited me to the lecture that was scheduled for April 27.  My artist friend, Nardena Sullivan, joined me and we both were simply astonished at the grandeur and the wonderful works of 19th century Italian art that we were privileged to view.  A magnificent collection of sculpture, paintings, furnishings, etc. was almost more than the human eye could behold at once.

Maybe I've left the best for last.  Irma Gilgore, herself, is just that "herself".  She is very attractive, even in her seventies, and vivacious is an understatement for her.  Mostly, she is smiling and putting forth a wonderful wit.  You just can't help but love Irma, immediately.  With her unique personality and vast knowledge of her art collection, the tour and lecture was made so memorable for us all.  I am deeply grateful for yesterday afternoon.  Many thanks to you, Irma.

Please click on Dr. Sheldon Gilgore for his obituary in The New York Times.  You will learn so much more about this fascinating couple.

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE