About this artwork

Jann Haworth is a pioneer of soft sculpture and a leading figure in the British Pop Art movement. This is her second sculpture on the theme of older women, based on a photograph of the artist’s great-grandmother. It combines reclaimed items, such as a Victorian christening gown, with hand-stitched elements. The elaborate patchwork quilt is a nuanced reference to the idea of a comic strip and female craft traditions; each fragment of fabric alludes to a segment of time, a chapter in a story. Growing up in Hollywood, Haworth witnessed first-hand the industry’s obsession with women’s youth and physical appearance. In contrast, her old ladies celebrate female wisdom, creative practices, and the visuals of ageing. Old Lady I, the first version of this work, features on the cover of The Beatles’ Sgt Pepper’s album, which Haworth co-designed with Peter Blake.

Updated June 2022

see media
  • artist:
    Jann Haworth (born 1942) American
  • title:
    Old Lady II
  • date created:
    1967
  • materials:
    Fabric, thread, wood, stuffing, leather and rocking chair
  • measurements:
    102.00 x 98.00 x 51.00 cm
  • object type:
  • credit line:
    Purchased with help from the Henry and Sula Walton Fund, 2021
  • accession number:
    GMA 5731
  • gallery:
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Jann Haworth

Jann Haworth