Mary Sharp Cronson died quietly in New York on July 13. She was 97.

A passionate advocate for the performing arts, Mary lived between New York and Edgartown, where, starting in 1951, she spent summers, Thanksgivings, Christmases and many holidays with her family, friends and dogs.

Raised in New York in a family steeped in artistic traditions, she dedicated her life to nurturing and supporting emerging artists and extended this interest into her summer life in her support of The Yard in Chilmark and Vineyard Arts Project in Edgartown.

She also played a crucial role in shaping the artistic landscape of New York. Her most significant contribution was the establishment of the Works & Process program at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in Manhattan.

Mary adored entertaining and hosted countless dinners, clambakes and parties at the Fuller street house. Her generosity and hospitality were memorable. Known for her impeccable taste and quick wit, she saw summer as a chance to celebrate the Island and all it had to offer. She was a long-term member of the Chappaquiddick Beach Club and the Edgartown Yacht Club.

She will be missed by her son, Paul Cronson, his wife, Caroline and her grandchild Christopher Cronson.