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Nelda Linsk

Celebrating "The First Lady of Modernism Week"

2026 Celebration of Nelda Linsk “The First Lady of Modernism Week”

On the anniversary of Nelda Linsk's star dedication on the Palm Springs Walk of the Stars, Modernism Week rededicates Nelda's star adding “First Lady of Modernism Week” to the tribute.

Nelda Linsk received her star on the Palm Springs Walk of the Stars in February 2018, presented by Modernism Week. The downtown ceremony broke records for attendance at a star dedication. Beloved longtime resident, Nelda arrived in Palm Springs in 1962 and has been a continuing influence on the culture, architecture, fashion, art and design of the city.

"Poolside Gossip" featuring Nelda Linsk seated in yellow on the right

Slim Aarons/ “Poolside Gossip”/Getty Images

Nelda Linsk and "Poolside Gossip"

Nelda has contributed to the enhancement of the cultural lifestyle of Palm Springs most notably through her friendship with the society photographer Slim Aarons. In February 1970, Nelda hosted a group of Palm Springs’ notable citizens at her home, the Richard Neutra designed Kaufmann House, for what would become one of the world’s most recognized photographs: Poolside Gossip. Nelda is the seated woman in yellow, and her dear friend, Helen ‘Dzo Dzo’ was seated with her wearing white lace.

Slim Aarons captured a long-lasting image of the Palm Springs lifestyle that remains a widely respected photograph and the subsequent photos from that day’s photo shoot are synonymous with Palm Springs; highlighting architecture, fashion, furniture and glamour all in a single photograph.

Join Modernism Week In The 2026 Celebration of Nelda Linsk "The First Lady of Modernism Week"

Join Modernism Week in Celebrating Nelda Linsk, The First Lady of Modernism Week.

Meet Nelda at one of these exciting Modernism Week events. Tickets may be required:

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