Margaret Herz Demant

Margaret Herz Demant was an extraordinary woman.

Having escaped Germany at the onset of World War II, she and her family arrived in Detroit in 1940. Together, Margaret and her husband, Henry, built her father’s firm, Walter Herz Interiors, into one of the most prominent interior design businesses in the Midwest. She created a multi-faceted life as a wife and mother, a talented designer and a highly successful businesswoman.

To us at the DIA, she was a devoted patron, generous donor and passionate supporter for over 50 years. Her myriad contributions include her service on the Board of Directors, the Collections Committee and her charter membership in the Tannahill Society. In recognition of her extraordinary record, the DIA awarded Margaret its 2004 Lifetime Service Award.

It is not surprising that Margaret, an astute designer and first-rate connoisseur, became a noteworthy art collector. A visit to her beautiful home offered a stunning display of African sculptures, European paintings, works on paper and much more.

During her lifetime, Margaret found many ways to share her art. She loaned art to exhibitions and opened her home for museum events. She also gifted exquisite and important works from her collection and contributed financially to the acquisition of others. Her financial support also included a charitable gift annuity and a generous portion of her estate residue.

The museum lost a great friend when Margaret passed away this year. Now, through a generous legacy gift, many more pieces from Margaret’s wonderful collection will come to the DIA.

The museum is deeply grateful to Margaret for her unfailing devotion, her extraordinary vision and her exceptional gifts.