Marjorie Cameron

Marjorie Cameron Parsons Kimmel: A Life Lived on the Edge

‘Was Marjorie Cameron Parsons Kimmel a rebel, an artist, or both?’ This question has echoed through the halls of history as we delve into her life. Born in Belle Plaine, Iowa, on April 23, 1922, Marjorie was destined for a journey that would challenge societal norms and push the boundaries of creativity.

A Childhood of Rebellion

From an early age, Marjorie showed signs of rebellion. She had even contemplated suicide after losing a childhood friend to it. This dark period in her life set the stage for the complex individual she would become. Her relationships with various men, including Cameron, were marked by passion and turmoil.

Service and Strife

During World War II, Marjorie volunteered for service in the US Navy as a cartographer. It was here that she met Winston Churchill, an encounter that would have lasting implications on her life. However, her time in the military was not without its challenges; she went AWOL to visit her brother injured overseas and faced court-martial before receiving an honorable discharge in 1945.

Meeting Jack Parsons: A New Chapter

After the war, Marjorie moved to Pasadena, California. It was here that she met Jack Parsons, a rocket scientist who believed her to be his elemental woman. Their relationship was strained but sparked an interest in Thelema and occultism. Tragically, their lives took a devastating turn when an explosion at Parsons’ house fatally wounded him before Marjorie could see his body.

Occult Rituals and Thelemic Beliefs

In the aftermath of Jack’s death, Marjorie became increasingly involved in occult rituals to communicate with his spirit. She established a multi-racial group called ‘The Children’ and befriended socialite Samson De Brier. Her mental stability deteriorated as she delved deeper into Thelemic practices, experiencing auditory hallucinations and mood swings.

Artistic Pursuits and Exhibitions

Despite her struggles, Marjorie continued to pursue her artistic interests. She appeared in several films and exhibitions, including the critically acclaimed Night Tide. Her work merged ‘Crowley’s occult with the surrealism and symbolism of French poets,’ creating dark yet whimsical depictions that buzzed with otherworldly power.

Later Years and Legacy

In her later years, Marjorie focused on her family life in West Hollywood. She maintained faith in Crowley’s Thelemic ideas and continued to explore various spiritual interests. Her reputation as an artist grew posthumously, with retrospectives held at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles.

Conclusion

Marjorie Cameron Parsons Kimmel was a life lived on the edge—full of rebellion, creativity, and spiritual exploration. Her journey is a testament to the power of art and the human spirit in the face of adversity. As we reflect on her legacy, one question remains: How many more lives could be transformed by such an extraordinary individual?