Arwin Galleries records, 1948-1981

Collection Information

Size: 8.7 Linear feet

Summary: The records of Detroit art gallery Arwin Galleries measure 8.7 linear feet and date from 1948 to 1981. The collection comprises administrative records including sales, consignment and loan records; personal and professional correspondence; artist files for Chuang Chi, Richard Kozlow, Ben and Bernarda Bryson Shahn, Jo Snyder, Russel Thayer, Adja Yunkers, and others; printed materials documenting the 1963 fire at the gallery, exhibitions, and other activities related to the gallery; artwork by Frederick Simper, Donald Snydor, and a few others; and photographic materials and moving images including photos of the Arwins, gallery artists, and exhibitions, and two film reels relating to the gallery fire. There is a 0.4 linear foot unprocessed addition to this collection donated in 2021 that includes a financial ledger of artists' accounts; a file with artists biographical information regarding Kosso, Rita Letendre, Cynthia C. Nartonis, Leslie Fraser-Ferst, Tom McClure, W. Louis Jones; a file on shipped/ returned artwork; and a file on Frank Rehn. Material dates from circa 1970-1981.

Biographical/Historical Note

The Arwin Galleries (est. 1963-1981) was founded by Lester and Kathleen (Kitty) Arwin in Detroit, Michigan.

Provenance

The Arwin Galleries records were donated in 1981, 1984 and 2021 by Melanie Arwin, the daughter of Lester and Kathleen Arwin.

Language Note

English .

Funding

Funding for the processing of this collection was provided by the Smithsonian Women's Committee.