Joyce Warshow

I met Joyce at a weekend conference some years ago - and was struck by her intelligence, enthusiasm and willingness to speak out about things she believed in. She had invited me to a get-together in New York to meet Dorothy and other friends, but I was unable to attend - and am so sorry to have missed out on knowing her better. Dorothy, my heart goes out to you, I lost my own partner almost 5 years ago, and understand how difficult this is.

I just learned the sad news. So another magnificent artist/activist is gone, and our world is the worse for it. I met Joyce only once, at a Florida conference, but admired her work and her spirit. That work lives on as a powerful memorial.

We sadly only had a short time meeting and knowing Joyce in Fort Lauderdale but we appreciated that opportunity and her warmth. Our hearts go out to Dorothy in this time of loss.

The time I spent with Joyce as we rode our apartment building elevator and then walked a few blocks together was a natural tonic like none other. What started as a brief conversation would expand to a wide-ranging discussion--our shared politics and values, the difficulty of being self-employed, our role as a daughter, the need to stay positive despite personal and public obstacles—enriched by Joyce’s wisdom and sensitivity. Joyce’s wide smile for everyone made our large impersonal building...

Joyce was brilliant, gentle, loving. Though she was always busy doing so much, perhaps too much, she seemed to have time for all. We were all so lucky to have her in our lives. My heart goes out to Dorothy and all her other friends.

A great loss of a talented fillmmaker and loving woman. Her energies and dedication will be sadly missed by all of us lucky enough to have known her. Our thoughts are with you, Dorothy.
Barbara Hammer and Florrie Burke

Joyce was one of those rare people who was a true friend from the moment you met her. She was always interested, ready to listen, present with an optimistic outlook. We had the great fortune to work with her and it was never just about filming people. Her enthusiasm, determination, and conviction drew you in. By her nature she transformed the act of working into a wonderful encounter with others. We miss her.

We met Joyce almost 30 years ago and were involved in a number of lesbian feminist political activities with her. We admire and celebrate her life and commitment to her work and to her wonderful relationship with Dorothy.

October 6, 2007
Dear dear Joyce--your elegances--of talent, of kindness, of the focus of your attention, of courage and persistence, of patience and gentle words, your films--I am far away in geography but in my hear I am sitting with you and Dorothy discussing ways to make creative dreams possible--I miss you--love, Joan Nestle, Melbourne, Australia and the Bronx