Includes bibliographical references (pages 227-231).

Most people associate Georgia O'Keeffe with New Mexico, painted cow skulls, and her flower paintings. She was revered for so long--born in 1887, died at age ninety-eight in 1986--that we forget how young, restless, passionate, searching, striking, even fearful she once was--a dazzling, mysterious female force in bohemian New York City during its heyday. In this distinctive book, in her characteristic style, Karen Karbo makes one of the greatest women painters vital and relevant for yet another generation. She chronicles O'Keeffe's early life, her desire to be an artist, the key moment when art became her form of self-expression, and her passionate love affair with master photographer Alfred Stieglitz. She also explores a range of universal themes--from how to discover and nurture your individuality to what it means to be in a committed relationship while maintaining your independence, from finding your own style to developing the ability to take risks.--From publisher description.