From delicate roses to tranquil landscapes, Patty Prather Thum captured the quiet beauty of nature while helping pave the way for women artists at the turn of the 20th century. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1853, Thum discovered her artistic talent early in life. Her mother gave Thum her first drawing lessons, sparking her interest in art. Beyond painting, she taught art, illustrated books, magazines and newspapers, and served as an art critic for the Louisville Herald. She served as president of the Louisville Art League, belonged to the Louisville Women’s Club and publicly supported women’s suffrage.