J. Benjamin Townsend papers, 1959-1964

Collection Information

Size: 0.2 Linear feet

Summary: The papers of art critic and historian J. Benjamin Townsend measure 0.2 linear feet and date from 1959 to 1964. The papers regard Townsend's article on Clyfford Still, "An Interview with Clyfford Still," 1961, including 8 letters from Still (and Mrs. Still on his behalf) and 3 letters to Mrs. Still from Townsend; a clipping of the article from GALLERY NOTES of the Albright-Knox Art Gallery; an annotated manuscript and proofs of the article, and Townsend's notes of his interview with Still, December 14, 1959. Also included are letters to Townsend from artists William Ronald, John Opper, Richard Stankiewicz, and Mrs. Jose Guerrero, mainly regarding Townsend's proposed articles about them, and a letter and receipt from Edwin Dickinson.

Biographical/Historical Note

J. Benjamin Townsend was an art critic and historian from Buffalo, N.Y. Townsend served as assistant director of the National Portrait Gallery (1967-1968) and professor of art and literature at the State University of New York, Buffalo (1957-1983). Among his publications are JOHN DAVIDSON, POET OF THE ARMAGEDDON, Yale (1961) and THE BUFFALO FINE ARTS ACADEMY (1862-1962), Albright-Knox Art Gallery (1962).

Provenance

Donated 1985 by J. Benjamin Townsend and his wife Jeanette Townsend.

Language Note

English .