Carol Ivey, a celebrated still-life painter from Fort Worth, has passed away at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy that has profoundly impacted the local art community.
The news of her unexpected death on February 8 prompted a wave of reflection among those who knew her. For many, including myself, this moment offers a bittersweet return to writing after a year away. The call to honor Carol’s memory felt like a daunting task, as no words could truly encapsulate her spirit and contributions. Yet, driven by the weight of the loss and the encouragement I could almost hear her voice imparting—“Just write what’s on your mind”—I set out to commemorate her life.
In my quest to celebrate Carol, I sifted through a trove of memories, including an interview we shared and various artifacts from the past two decades. Old emails, photographs, and videos serve as poignant reminders of her influence, and the comfort they bring is shared by many in the community who mourn her absence.
Carol seemed to be a constant presence at art openings and events that championed artistic expression. She and her husband, Herb Levy, were often seen together, sharing their love for the arts and supporting fellow artists. Their last evening together was spent enjoying a film at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, a venue where they were frequent visitors.
My memories of Carol are woven through countless experiences—crawfish boils, gallery tours, and creative collaborations. She was a steadfast supporter, attending every exhibition I participated in and encouraging me in my artistic pursuits. Carol and Herb were not only dedicated to their own journey but also to uplifting the community around them, as evidenced by their participation in events that brought artists together.
The stories of Carol’s impact are innumerable, spanning from artists in Fort Worth to those in cities like Seattle and Austin, and even international locales such as Lisbon and Tuscany. Throughout her life, she nurtured students and fellow artists, sharing her passion for nature and art. Whenever she was not painting in her studio, she could be found exploring the natural beauty of places like Tandy Hills wildlife area.
In addition to her artistic endeavors, Carol was actively engaged in civic causes, advocating for women’s rights and environmental issues. She was a participant in marches advocating against GMOs and for voting rights, demonstrating her commitment to important social issues.
Carol played a pivotal role in reshaping the Austin organization Women & Their Work, collaborating with fellow artists to ensure that women’s contributions to the art world were recognized and celebrated. Her dedication to building a legacy for women artists in Texas was a central theme of her life’s work.
Born Janice Carol Ivey on May 2, 1949, in Sherman, Texas, she pursued her education at the University of Texas at Austin, where she graduated in 1971. Carol’s journey in the arts included teaching roles at various colleges, including Texas Christian University, as well as numerous workshops across Texas and beyond.
Her artistic achievements are reflected in a diverse portfolio, with her work displayed in esteemed collections including Baylor All Saints Medical Center and Fidelity Investments. Carol’s art has graced numerous exhibitions, showcasing her talent at venues such as the Albuquerque Museum and the Aspen Art Museum.
Just a couple of months ago, I had the pleasure of seeing Carol at a memorial for another friend. Our last exchange was a heartfelt message she sent after supporting me at the dedication of my public art sculpture. Her words were filled with warmth and encouragement, a testament to her generous spirit: “Beautiful Day. So good to see the swarm of friends showing such love and support and appreciation! Bravo Chris!”
Carol Ivey’s life was a testament to kindness, creativity, and unwavering support for others. Her legacy will live on through the lives she touched and the art she created. May we all strive to emulate her grace and generosity in our interactions with one another.
