Jo Ann C. Stabb

This is an interview of the late Jo Ann Stabb died on February 13, 2022 at age 80. She played a seminal role in establishing a Design Department at UC Davis that is now ranked in the top 5% of academic design departments in the U.S. Jo Ann Stabb went to Occidental College and UCLA to study art and design. She graduated from UCLA with an M.S. degree in 1967. She came to Davis in 1968 and retired in 2002. She was recruited to UC Davis by Orville Thompson (https://www.ucdavis.edu/news/student-advocate-orville-thompson-dies-87), who played a leadership role in strengthening departments and programs such as Design and UC Davis' ethnic and related studies programs. Professor Thompson often noted that Jo Ann Stabb was among the best, if not the best, of the recruiting decisions made during the process. Indeed, her career at Davis validated his statement. Jo Ann Stabb is a designer, author, and lecturer focusing on the field of fashion and wearable art. Her creative work has been exhibited throughout the U.S., Europe, South Korea, and Australia. In addition, her works on contemporary wearables are published in design journals and magazines with high visibility. Moreover, she has lectured for professional associations, including the World Crafts Council, Costume Society of America, International Textile and Apparel Association, Surface Design Association, and numerous museums and arts organizations. A recent activity was serving as executive producer of the video series "Wearable Art from California," distributed through the University of California and internationally through the United States Information Agency. Following her retirement, Jo Ann continued to create, guest lecture, curate exhibitions, write, and consult in the field. She also served on the Board of Directors for the Costume Society of America and the Textile Arts Council of the de Young Museum.

Name: Jo Ann C. Stabb Interviewer: Helge B. Olsen Date Interviewed: 6/9/05 Date Appointed: 1968 Date Retired: 2002 Department(s): Design