Rye, New York – Harriet Feinberg Sadow, an artist, wife, Mother, and teacher
“Almost always, I start with a doodle. Sometimes that doodle takes me by the hand and leads me into a wonderland of endless possibilities.”
Harriet Feinberg Sadow, 93, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2023, in her home at the Osborn of Rye, New York. Harriet was born on April 21, 1930, to Mr. and Mrs. Sydney Feinberg in Fall River, Massachusetts. She spent her childhood in the small provincial city, and after graduating from high school, attended the prestigious School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. As a student she was groomed in her craft and developed her passion for painting. In 1953, Harriet married Bernard David Sadow, who served in World War II and was renowned for “wheels on luggage.” They moved to Chappaqua, NY, in 1960 to raise their two children. At the threshold of Manhattan Harriet’s world opened and the New York Art Scene became her playground. Both she and her husband were patrons of the Metropolitan Opera and the Philharmonic; and were select members of the museum circuit.
At Columbia University, Harriet continued her education and graduated in 1971 with a Master’s in art history. The next 20 years she was at the helm of the art department for Lakeland High School; restructured and calibrated a college preparatory program for her students. They received a foundation in art history, theory, and studio technique. During her tenure she cultivated a loyal student following many of whom pursued careers in the field of art and design.
Harriet was a prolific painter. Her subject matter was drawn from personal experiences, ranging from the city’s grit of subway strap hangers to portraits of domesticity. In her mature years, the cycle of the seasons was a recurring theme. She created landscapes with exuberant autumnal color that contrasted with the stark winter terrain she meticulously layered with ethereal light. Her work was exhibited in group shows and solo at the Lever Gallery in Manhattan, the Katonah Museum, and the Bruce Museum on the Hudson.
Harriet was predeceased by her loving husband Bernard of 57 years; he passed on in 2011. She is survived by her son, Brian Donald Sadow, and his wife, Judy, of Bronxville, N.Y., her daughter, Gail Sadow O’Rourke, and granddaughter Feiyan Ada O’Rourke of New York, NY. We give our special thanks to Adris for her devotion and loving care for our mother during her declining years.
