Internationally famous designer Judith Leiber and her husband, Gerson, a Modernist American Painter were a fascinating creative couple! Their talents were strong and singular, but when combined with their unique love story and passion for the arts, it was a match that is legendary. Together over 70 years, they shared an unbreakable bond personally and professionally until their death hours apart. She was 97 and he was 96 years old.

Learn about Judith's rise to fame as a handbag designer to celebrities, American First Ladies, movie stars and more. Growing up as a Jew in Budapest, her circumstances were difficult. However, she stumbled into learning unique skills that would make her a master craftsperson in the world of fashion. When she met Gerson, a Jewish-American GI soldier from Pennsylvania, they fell in love and moved to New York. There, they grew an empire and built a museum to house their collections.

The Leiber story is very special and one that would inspire anyone interested in fashion, art, World War II experiences, business, New York life, romance and more.

See how their love for each other and pride in their accomplishments gave them the idea to share it all by building a museum for future generations to experience. Artful Circle is honored to present the Leiber legacy, along with the Leiber Collection (www.leibermuseum.org)

Photos: (Top to Bottom): Judith Leiber is surrounded by her handbag creations; This bejeweled butterfly style purse was the last one Judith created in her long career; Judith and Gerson Leiber pose in front of one of his fashion-themed paintings; their collection is housed in a museum that they built on their property in the Springs section of East Hampton, New York.