By Warren Strugatch
New York Times
Jan. 6, 2017
Gerson and Judith Leiber have been married for more than 70 years, and in that time, they have built a handbag empire that has accessorized first ladies, socialites and movie stars. Mr. Leiber, 95, a painter, lithographer and sculptor, has works in the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Brooklyn Museum, while Ms. Leiber, also 95, has purses on display at the Smithsonian Institution. Their entrepreneurial spirit and passion for beauty have made them important influences in the world of art and fashion.
Now, within less than a year’s time, three major shows about their long and fruitful partnership have been planned.
The first, “The Artist & Artisan,” an exhibition featuring both of their works at the Flomenhaft Gallery in Manhattan, closed on Dec. 30. Next up is “Brilliant Partners: Judith Leiber’s Handbags & the Art of Gerson Leiber,” opening in February at the Long Island Museum in Stony Brook, N.Y. In April, the Museum of Arts and Design in Midtown Manhattan will offer “Judith Leiber: Crafting a New York Story.”