Zelma is a feminine given name of English origin with an unknown or unconfirmed meaning. It is a variant of the name Selma. The name was popular in the United States between 1880 and 1955, reaching its peak in 1902 as the 216th most popular name for American girls. Zelma was also among the top 100 names for girls born in Latvia between 1920 and 1935, and in Brazil between 1950 and 1960. Notable women bearing this name include Unita Zelma Blackwell, a prominent American civil rights activist, and Zelma Long, an American enologist and winemaker. The only notable man with this name is Zelma Wyche, an African-American World War II veteran, civil rights activist, and politician. Despite its unclear meaning, Zelma has been associated with strong, accomplished individuals across different fields and nations.
Zelma Muriel Blakely (26 November 1921 - 6 September 1978) was a British painter, printmaker, and engraver known for her remarkable illustrations in various books. Born in Kensington, London, to a British diplomat and Imeon Maria Matear, Blakely received her education in both the United States and England. She pursued her passion for art at the Kingston School of Art and the prestigious Slade School of Art, where she was mentored by renowned artists William Coldstream and Randolph Schwabe. Blakely's preferred technique was wood-engraving, and she gained recognition for her work, receiving the Wilson Steer Gold Medal.Throughout her career, she illustrated several notable books, including "El Zarco the Bandit" by Ignacio Manuel Altamirano and "The Charterhouse of Parma" by Stendhal, showcasing her talent and expertise in visual storytelling. Blakely's artistic contributions were acknowledged when she became an associate member of the Royal Society of Painter-Etchers and Engravers in 1955, followed by full membership in 1966. Her dedication to art led her to teach at Heatherley's School of Art while establishing herself as a prominent printmaker and illustrator. Blakely's impactful legacy continues to inspire and captivate art enthusiasts and aspiring illustrators worldwide.
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