John Opper papers, 1908-2013, bulk 1930-1994

Collection Information

Size: 1.6 Linear feet; 0.057 Gigabytes

Summary: The papers of New York-based abstract painter and teacher John Opper measure 1.6 linear feet and 0.057 GB and are dated 1908-2013, bulk 1930-1994. The papers contain both professional and personal correspondence. Biographical materials include passports, sketches, certificates, and curriculum vitae, as well as some genealogical documents in digital format. Personal business records relate to the artist's Bowery Street and Amagansett studios, art sales through the Grace Borgenicht Gallery, and a few art inventories. A scrapbook contains newspaper clippings. Additional clippings, exhibition catalogs and announcements, and galley sheets of a children's book illustrated by Opper are included among the printed material. Photographs are of Opper, his family, friends, and paintings. Digital photographs depict the artist and relatives.

Biographical/Historical Note

Chicago born abstract painter and teacher John Opper (1908-1994) moved to New York in the 1930s where he lived and worked for most of his career.

Provenance

The John Opper papers were donated to the Archives of American Art by the artist's children, Jane and Joseph Opper, in 2013.

Related Materials

Also found in the Archives of American Art is an oral history interview with John Opper, conducted by Irving Sandler, 1968 September 9-1969 January 3.

Language Note

English .

Digitization Note

This site provides access to the papers of John Opper in the Archives of American Art that were digitized in 2021, and total 2,144 images.

Funding Note

Funding for the processing of this collection was provided by Jane and Joseph Opper.