Gwen Bowen Papers

Collection

Identifier: D030

Staff Only

Abstract

Gwen Bowen was a dance instructor in the Denver area who was named a Living Legend of Dance in Colorado by the Friends of the Carson-Brierly Dance Library in 2005. This collection contains magazines, newspaper clipping, costumes, photographs, posters, art, VHS and audio cassette tapes, scrapbooks, and other memorabilia belonging to Gwen Bowen and/or relating to the Gwen Bowen School of Dance Arts.

Dates

1947-2012

Creator

Bowen, Gwen (Person)

Biographical / Historical

Gwen Bowen (b. May 29, 1929), was a prominent dance teacher in Denver. She was born and raised in Colorado. Under choreographer Lillian Cushing, Gwen studied dance, but after an injury was forced to retire. Gwen earned a degree in education and opened the Gwen Bowen School of Dance Arts on Pearl Street in Denver, teaching children, adolescents, and adults over a career that spanned over five decades. "Miss B", as she was known to students and friends, was also active in the Denver arts community and received numerous awards and commendations during her life. She served on the board of the Friends of the Carson-Brierly Dance Library and was inducted as a Living Legend of Dance in Colorado by the Friends of the Carson-Brierly Dance Library in 2005. Gwen passed away on March 29, 2012.

Extent

108.0 Linear Feet (102 containers)

Additional Description

Scope and Contents

The collection contains materials generated during the life of Gwen Bowen and the Gwen Bowen School of Dance Arts. These include administrative papers for the school, teaching and production materials, original coreography by Gwen, photographs of performances and personal photographs, Gwen's personal papers including correspondence and SMArts materials, and textiles used at the school or personally by Gwen. Textiles include four costumes, t-shirts, ballet slippers, and tap shoes.

Arrangement

Original arrangement of materials was not kept. The collection is partially arranged. Contents of collection are arranged in nine series: 1. Personal Papers, 2. Publications, 3. Productions, 4. Teaching Materials, 5. Administrative Papers, 6. Photographs, 7. Memorabilia, 8. Textiles, and 9. Audiovisual Materials.

Related Materials

Materials related to PDAC/Arts For All Records have been added to their own collection, D045.

Gwen Bowen is a 2005 Living Legend of Dance. Her interview has been placed in: Friends of The Dance Archive 'Living Legends of Dance' Oral Histories (D009.04.0005.00006).