"Altina Schinasi: Celebrating the American Sculptor with Google Doodle"

Altina Schinasi, the creator of the iconic cat-eye glasses, lived a remarkable life as a sculptor, filmmaker, and inventor. Her legacy lives on.

Altina Schinasi, an extraordinary individual with a multitude of talents and accomplishments, left an indelible mark on the world. Born on August 4, 1907, and departing on August 19, 1999, she was not only an American sculptor, filmmaker, businesswoman, window dresser, designer, and inventor, but also the creative genius behind the iconic cat-eye glasses, affectionately known as the "Harlequin eyeglass frame."

As the youngest among her siblings, Altina's journey towards greatness began with home tutoring, which laid the foundation for her educational pursuits. At the tender age of twelve, she embarked on a new chapter in her life, boarding at Dana Hall School in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Her insatiable thirst for knowledge and passion for art led her to Paris, where she honed her artistic skills. Upon returning to the United States, Altina found herself working as a window dresser for renowned stores on the illustrious Fifth Avenue, rubbing shoulders with creative luminaries such as Salvador Dali and George Grosz.

It was during this period that Altina's ingenuity and vision came to fruition, as she conceived the groundbreaking design of the Harlequin cat-eye glasses. These iconic sunglasses, which have stood the test of time, continue to captivate women across the globe even today, nearly a century after their inception.

In the 1940s, Schinasi embarked on a new adventure, venturing westward to the vibrant city of Los Angeles. Her intention was to dedicate more time to her artistic endeavors, and she succeeded in expanding her business before ultimately deciding to sell it. This pivotal moment allowed Altina to embrace a new level of commitment to her art, bidding farewell to her business and the bustling streets of New York.

The 1960s marked a significant period in Altina's life, as she delved into the realm of filmmaking. Her documentary, "George Grosz' Interregnum," garnered widespread acclaim, showcasing her ability to capture the essence of her subjects and present them to the world. Additionally, Schinasi was deeply moved by Martin Luther King Jr.'s historic March on Washington, acquiring the rights to create a film that would immortalize this pivotal moment in history.

In 1995, Altina shared her remarkable journey through her memoir, aptly titled "The Road I Have Traveled." This introspective and deeply personal account offered readers a glimpse into the life of a woman who defied societal norms and blazed her own trail.

Altina Schinasi's legacy extended beyond her artistic achievements. In her later years, she found solace and inspiration in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she resided with her fourth husband, the esteemed painter Celestino Miranda. It was here that she spent her final moments, surrounded by the beauty of the Southwest and the love of her partner.

In 2014, a documentary aptly named "Altina" was released, celebrating the life and contributions of this remarkable individual. Through this film, audiences were able to witness the sheer brilliance and tenacity that defined Altina Schinasi, leaving an everlasting impact on the world of art and beyond.

Altina Schinasi's story serves as a testament to the power of creativity, determination, and the relentless pursuit of one's passions. Her innovative designs and artistic vision continue to inspire generations, reminding us that greatness can be achieved through unwavering dedication and the courage to forge our own paths.

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