Croydon, PA
Carol “CJ” Collins, a trail blazing artist and mentor, passed away on February 23, 2025 in Croydon, Pennsylvania. Born on March 12, 1939 in McKinney, Texas, CJ’s journey was one of artistic exploration and fearless self-expression. She graduated from Temple High School in 1957, going on to earn her Master’s Degree in Art from the University of Santa Barbara in California.
Her passion for creativity led her to become a pioneering figure in the 1970’s when artists began settling in New York City’s Tribeca neighborhood. There she established herself as a galleried artist renowned for her large-scale abstract expressionist works.
Beyond her own artistic achievements, CJ was deeply committed to fostering creativity in others. She taught in Dublin, Ireland and hosted many artists, dancers, musicians, and writers from around the world at her studio in New York City. A fierce advocate for intellectualism and individualism, she encouraged those around her to embrace their unique voices. She had an unyielding belief in common sense and suffered no fools—a trait that made her both admired and unforgettable.
Her influence extended beyond the studio and classroom. As a feminist and creative mentor, she inspired generations to push boundaries and challenge conventions. One of her most cherished teaching methods involved guiding children by tracing drawings on their backs with her fingers—helping them translate that sensation onto paper and instilling in them the freedom to express themselves without limits.
CJ’s Tribeca loft became legendary for its vibrant gatherings. The hosted unforgettable parties where rock stars—both famous and infamous—were drawn to her fearless personality and distinctive style. Her home was a haven for creative minds seeking inspiration and camaraderie.
Carol leaves behind beloved partner and husband of almost 50 years, Tim Tracy; daughter Valerie Vardell and son-in-law Matt Clark, sister Teresa McClung, sister-in-law Kathleen Flanagan Collins, grandchildren Will Clark and Grace Clark, and special grandchildren Mariah Lark and Journey Collins, nephews and nieces Rodney Collins, Brian Collins, Jeffrey Collins, Ryan Earley, Keith Wrape, Jason Wrape, Jamie Tracy, great nieces and nephews Chase Collins, Cody Collins, Chloe Collins, Glory Collins, Noah Collins, and Honesty Lucas.
Preceding her in death were her parents, Ralph and Lucille Collins, her beloved sister Janet Collins, her beloved brother, Curtis Collins, and her son Brian Ralph Vardell.
Carol leaves a legacy of artistic brilliance and unwavering authenticity. Her impact on the art world and those she mentored will continue to resonate for years to come. Examples of her work can be found at 83Leonardgallery.com.
Carol’s immediate family celebrated her life over the Labor Day weekend at the Collins Slough, site of the original
