Mah Jongg Tile Set Description

Tile Set Name:  TOKENS.TIL
Subject:        Tokens of Identity, 1981, by Ida Kohlmeyer
Created by:     Barbara Beckham, Ph.D.
                Corpus Christi, TX

  This set of tiles is based on the limited edition 
lithograph, "Tokens of Identity", by New Orleans' 
artist, Ida Kohlmeyer. Ms. Kohlmeyer's work is populated 
by whimsical shapes and signs and is distinguished by 
delightful color combinations. Kohlmeyer was a protege
of Rothko early in her career and his influence is still 
quite heavy in this piece from 1981.
 
  Tokens of Identity was published with both a black and 
a pale green backgroud. It is essentially an 11 by 7 
array of 77 individual "tokens". This set includes 44 of 
the original 77. Each time a game board is displayed 
using the "Tokens" tile set it therefore creates a miniature 
version of the original work.

  I selected a work by Kohlmeyer for my tile set to 
demonstrate the possibilities of adapting fine art to 
Maj Jongg tiles. I believe that designs drawn from the 
works of great artists can provide non-artists with the 
kernel of inspiration necessary for a satisfying tile 
set. I found Kohlmeyer's work a help in avoiding the 
kind of non-representational hodge-podge non-artists 
risk when attempting to create a series of designs.

  This tile set does not use suits as in the original 
game. Wild cards, designs based on O's and X's, are 
used.

  I hope you enjoy these tiles and that you have a 
opportunity to enjoy Kohlmeyer's work in person at one 
her frequent gallery or museum shows.