Better than email, a note from an artist

martin birthday card

Henry Martin, Class of 1948, Sneaking in to say ‘thanks’…, no date. Pen and marker drawing. GC029 Henry Martin Cartoon Collection. GA 2011.00353. Gift of David K. Reeves, Class of 1948.

The wonderful American artist Henry Martin and David Reeves (1926-2012) were both members of Princeton University’s class of 1948. Their friendship continued long after, both living in or close to Princeton most of their lives. Lucky for David, he would get occasional cards and notes from his friend with amazing illustrations. Lucky for graphic arts, Reeves generously donated his collection of Martin’s drawings to the graphic arts collection in 2011.

 

martin thanksgiving card

Henry Martin, Class of 1948, Sorry you won’t be having Thankgiving…, 2009. Pen and watercolor drawing. GC029 Henry Martin Cartoon Collection. GA 2011.00350. Gift of David K. Reeves, Class of 1948.

martin thanksgiving2

 

The painter and illustrator Norman Rockwell (1894-1978) also liked to write personal notes to friends. This card is addressed to Alfred Pach but it is unclear whether that refers to the brother or the nephew of collector Walter Pach (1883-1958).

rockwell note

Norman Rockwell (1894-1978), To Alfred Pach, no date. Pen and watercolor. Graphic Arts Collection GA 2006.02477