Connecticut native B.A. Shapiro, known for her captivating novels, explores a unique blend of art and the paranormal in her latest work, ‘The Lost Masterpiece.’ At 73, Shapiro reflects on her earlier career, where she primarily wrote Boston-based ghost stories and thrillers infused with supernatural elements.
In her newest book, she returns to those themes, smartly intertwining the paranormal with an art mystery. “I actually published five novels very early in my career,” Shapiro shared in a recent interview. “A number had paranormal elements. Two were ghost stories. It’s really fun to write that stuff. So I thought, ‘What the hell? Let’s see if I can get it to work.’”
The narrative of ‘The Lost Masterpiece’ centers around Tamara Rubin, a Bostonian with a familial connection to the renowned Impressionist artist Berthe Morisot. When Tamara discovers she has inherited Édouard Manet’s painting ‘Party on the Seine,’ which had been stolen by Nazis during World War II, her world takes a dramatic turn.
After hanging the painting in her Tremont Street home, Tamara becomes increasingly obsessed, akin to an addict unable to resist temptation. The plot skillfully shifts between contemporary Boston and 19th-century Paris, offering readers a glimpse into the lives of the Impressionist circle, including legends such as Manet, Degas, Monet, and Morisot herself.
The painting holds an enigmatic allure, seemingly possessing magical qualities. It miraculously withstands devastating events, and Tamara experiences strange occurrences—such as the artist’s signature altering before her eyes and visions of a character winking. As she becomes haunted by vivid nightmares, Tamara questions whether Morisot’s spirit lingers within the canvas.
The historical context of the story is meticulously researched, providing a believable backdrop to the fictional events, which sparked curiosity among readers. Shapiro’s portrayal of Morisot aims to shine a light on the artist’s unfair treatment and underappreciation, reflecting both admiration and empathy for her circumstance.
Shapiro’s fascination with Berthe Morisot began while researching for her previous work, ‘The Art Forger.’ Scanning through her notes, she was drawn to Morisot’s story and the challenges faced by women artists of her time. “The whole idea of this unsung talent grabbed me. The quality of her work, the misogyny, what it was like for a woman in those days. I felt she really got screwed, and that if I wrote a book, people might look her up and see she deserves more acclaim,” Shapiro commented.
On the subject of the rumored romance between Morisot and Manet, Shapiro adds her creative touch, stating, “Historians acknowledge that she and Manet were in love, but no one knows for certain whether they had a physical affair. But, hey, I’m writing novels, so of course they’re going to have a physical affair — and they’re also going to have an illegitimate child.”
Reflecting on her connection to the lives of artists, Shapiro recounts her artistic aspirations as a child. “When I was little, I wanted to be an artist. My parents were very supportive. My mother signed me up for classes. My father built me a studio in the basement. It was great, except for the fact that it became clear really quickly I had no talent. So I became an art appreciator.”
Though she holds advanced degrees in sociology from Tufts University, Shapiro has never studied art history. Her research approach involves extensive reading, online research, and visiting museums to immerse herself in the world of art.
In addition to her latest novel, Shapiro is already working on a new project focused on Misia Sert, an influential muse and patron in the arts. “She had this fascinating life,” Shapiro remarked, hinting at the rich narrative potential.
Shapiro’s pivot from ghost stories and mysteries to artist-centric historical fiction took place after moving back to Boston from Lexington in 2005. Surrounded by artists and within walking distance of various museums, she decided to explore writing about art more deeply. “And I loved it. I switched from murder-mystery/supernatural into art mode.”
Despite her childhood interest in painting, Shapiro humorously recounts her recent attempts at watercolor classes. “I actually tried taking watercolor classes recently, and once again — ehhh. I’d love to sing, but I can’t do that either.”
As Shapiro continues to captivate readers with her unique storytelling style, fans eagerly anticipate her upcoming events at Harvard Book Store on July 30 and Belmont Books on August 8.
image source from：bostonglobe
