Collection Information

Size: 7 video cassettes (VHS) (ca. 3 hrs.) : sd., col. ; 1/2 in.

Summary: Documentaries about American abstract expressionists, produced and directed by Thomas Herskovic, and edited by Marika Herskovic; one is an interview of Ibram Lassaw conducted by Fred Licht. Each of the artists participated in the 1951 exhibition in New York, "The 9th Street Show" (May 21- June 10, 1951 at 60 E. 9th St.), organized and juried by the artists themselves. Each video includes a biographical summary of the artist, and is from 15 to 25 minutes in length. The artists include: James Brooks, Nicolas Carone, Perle Fine, Albert Kotin, Ibram Lassaw, Conrad Marca-Relli, and Joe Stefanelli. With the exception of Stefanelli, the artists participated in the following five "Artists Annuals" exhibitions.

Biographical/Historical Note

Thomas Herskovic is a medical doctor and Marika Herskovic is a molecular biologist. Both have an interest in the abstract expressionist movement and are friends with the artists chosen for interviews.

Provenance

The Herskovics produced the videotapes to document the recollections of the artists involved in abstract expressionism. The selection of the artists was based on participation in the "Artists Annuals" between 1951 (9th Street Show) and 1957. They are friends with many of the artists. Additional interviews have been and will be conducted; it is expected these will also be donated.

Location of Originals

• Duplicates in: Sidney Mishkin Gallery of the Baruch College of CCNY; Guild Hall, East Hampton, N.Y.; Provincetown Art Association and Museum, Mass; Pollack Krasner Study Center, East Hampton, N.Y.; and Art in Film, a joint project organized by the Metropolitan Museum and the Getty Museum.

Restrictions on Access

Use of original papers requires an appointment and is limited to the Archives' Washington, D.C., Research Center.

How to Cite This Collection

Abstract expressionist art movement in America video documentation project, 1991-1992. Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.