She is an exception to that rule though, with her sketches – as seductively creepy as her glass panels – now gaining in popularity and value. Unlike Tiffany, who had artists on staff to work out designs through sketch and watercolor, her drawings are not necessarily templates for her window designs. “I don’t really need a sketch to make a window. Most that you see that are fancy and beautiful I sell as they are,” said Schaechter. “If I had a completed drawing to make a panel, it would just be labor. I may have a face, but not a body. What’s the context? I don’t know yet.”

Much like her artwork itself, Schaechter’s view of future reverie for fine arts in general is not entirely optimistic. “Art now follows technology, and movies. Our culture likes film and special effects. There was a time when light coming through a saint’s halo on a glass panel was special effects. People didn’t just think they were seeing pictures of God. He was right there!”

has been permanent home for a striking collection of internationally known works donated by Sydney and Frances Lewis – enthusiastic admirers and collectors of Art Nouveau and Art Deco furniture and objects. Founder of the now- defunct Best Products, Mr. Lewis passed away in 1999; Mrs. Lewis remains active with the museum and serves on its Board. Upon viewing their contributions in the context of the larger exhibit, one cannot help but be grateful for their genuine appreciation of style… and beauty.

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