George and Betty Woodman began their nearly seven decade relationship in life and art in 1950. George, then a freshman at Harvard University, took a pottery class taught by Betty, who had recently returned to Boston after finishing her own studies at the School for American Craftsmen in Alfred, NY. Despite having fallen in love, Betty left on a solo trip to Fiesole, Italy, just outside of Florence, where she remained for a year. During that time, the two regularly exchanged passionate love letters and affectionate notes.

Here, George elaborately illustrated: "I love you"

Betty wrote: “For George because soon it will be spring and today I have a cold + I love you"

They promised to marry each other, which they did in 1953, not long after Betty returned to Boston.

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