Celebrating Martha Reed's 100th Birthday
Martha Reed (1922-2010) was the only child of Doel and Jane Reed. She grew up in Stillwater where her father served as Chairman of the Oklahoma A&M Art Department. She earned her art degree from the university and after graduating became a director’s assistant at the Philbrook Museum in Tulsa, OK. Approximately four years later, she moved to the Dallas Museum of Art for one year.
Martha moved to Taos in 1953 and ultimately launched a very successful career as a
fashion designer under her label Martha of Taos Originals. Her creations were influenced by the distinctive colors and shapes of the Native
American culture. Her famous broomstick skirts and beautiful Navajo shirts have withstood
the test of time and are often still seen at fashionable social gatherings in the
Taos area.
As a tribute to the legacy of her father, Martha gifted the family property to Oklahoma State University in 2006, but continued to live in her adobe home until her death in 2010. During that period, she often entertained visiting OSU students in her home.
Martha Reed and her father Doel Reed (1894-1985) were pillars of the Taos art scene. Their love for art education is the foundation for the mission of the OSU Doel Reed Center in Taos.
Happy 100th birthday Martha and thank you for your amazing gift to Oklahoma State University. It will continue to impact the educational lives of many in the future.