Esther Painting Hagstrom was a local legend in her own
right. As a teacher for the Coronado High School from 1939 to 1951 and taught
children the meaning and benefit of art within their lives. She also ran the
art curriculum for the school district that helped her influence the
impressions of many young people. To commemorate her influence the Coronado Library
is offering a glimpse into her watercolors, illustrations, and other works.
Esther Hagstrom was a bit of a controversial woman. She was
divorced at a time when few women were single or single mothers. In today’s world,
being a single parent is a normal process of life and a majority of us will
experience it in some way or another. Yet back in the mid 1900’s such
lifestyles were certainly considered contrary to normal social expectations.
At this time it was much harder to earn and
live in this way.
Esther was born in Walla Walla Washington on a wheat ranch
owned by her grandparents. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from the
University of Washington.
After graduation,
she married a naval officer but the relationship did not last and she divorced.
With a young son, she moved to California and continued to engage in graduate
studies at
University of Southern California, the
University of California Berkeley and the San Francisco Art Institute.
Before being hired by the Coronado School District she
taught private lessons in her own art studio. She also spent time as chairperson
for the Coronado Art Association, membership in the San Diego Art Guild, Art
Center in La Jolla and the San Diego Fine Arts Society. Her works include
jewelry, oil painting, woodcarvings, watercolors, sculpture and more. She was taken
from society at the ripe age of 46.
In commemoration and support of Esther Painting Hagstrom’s
life and work, you can see her exhibit for free. The Coronado Library is also a
beautiful place to read and learn. Check out a book while your there.
March, April
and May 2013.
Price: Free
Monday-Thursday:
10am-9pm, Friday and Saturday: 10am-6:00pm and Sunday 1pm-5pm
Coronado
Public Library
640 Orange
Avenue
Coronado,
CA. 92118
