Gisela von Eicken

[mikeweil]

Gisela von Eicken was married to conga player Michel Smithe (a Cal Tjader sideman in the early 1970's) and the partner of bassist Fred Hopkins for 20 years to his death. Click here for an interview with photos of her jewelry and other works including her portraits of both musicians.

Very intersting jewelry, I must say.

Edited January 25, 2005 by mikeweil

[Chuck Nessa]

Fred wrote GvE for her.

[Man with the Golden Arm]

Gisela found inspiration in Fred's music. She would sit by candlelight at a small table in the jazz club where Fred was playing, and with her pliers and wire, she would weave the flame-bright, molten-like metal, working and listening.

now that's an art studio!

thanks for posting, mike.

[mikeweil]

Her portrait of Michael Smithe:

... and her portrait of Fred Hopkins:

Judging from the paintings she made for a hotel, she really loves jazz:

[Chuck Nessa]

She seemed to be a very nice, warm person the few times I was around. Fred seemed devoted to her.