Ms. Mary Ellen Croteau

Today I was at the barbershop and somehow the conversation wound its way to bars — and I started talking about my favorite bar here in Chicago, which happened to be right across the street from my old apartment. I mentioned some things I loved about it and how it had my all-time favorite piece of art hanging inside, so I pulled up a photo I’d taken of it. My barber thought it was hilarious and asked who the artist was. I had no idea — I’d loved that painting for years and had never once...

I can still hear your voice in your works.
Thank you for still hearing me.

I have just discovered your artwork and have never known you in life, but am appreciative for the mark you left behind with your beautiful portrait made of bottle caps. I am inspired to make art following in your footsteps.

I'm sorry to have not known about Mary Ellen's passing until today. I am so grateful to have known her, and to have witnessed her fearlessness. She continues to inspire me in art and life, even though I'll never have her guts. Hugs to all her loved ones.

how did she die

I have only just found out about this and want to send my sincerest condolences to Mary Ellen's loved ones. Mary Ellen made the art work which is on the cover of my book 'The Last Taboo: Women and Body Hair' (Manchester University Press, 2006 and paperback 2011) and also sold me at a friend's price the original art work itself - 'Hair Book'. It was a pleasure to work with Mary Ellen and her art work will live on also as the book cover, a great example of her feminist critique and originality.

Mary Ellen, thank you for inspiring me, early on, to think of art in a different way. You were a model for the rest of us: how to imbue our art with our politics.

I am always going to thinknof Mary Ellen whenever I see art I like, and whenever I see art to which I object! She has certainly shaped how I view art- the effort and the imagery being consciously created. Even if I can't support the subject matter, I can usually admire the work in it. She was sostrongly opinionated, passionate and headstrong! I have said if ever in a fight, I hope Mary Ellen is on my side! She was happy to take my 3 yo teins on a nature hikewhile camping... they still...

Thank you for bringing an essential body of art on this planet, Dear Mary Ellen. Your art works, your activism and your networking around the globe will keep your spirit alive. I remember the time we could share, carry you in my heart and will keep your spirit alive. My sincere condolences go to your family and all friends.