Monday, November 7, 2016

Arthur Getz Goes to the Polls

Arthur Getz created more covers for the New Yorker than any other artist. Over the years, he visited the campaign theme time and time again, in each instance bringing a different perspective. Four works of original cover art with election themes were sold at Swann Galleries in September.

Then as now, electioneering was forbidden in the immediate vicinity of the polling place. The flag in 1952 still had forty-eight stars; this was to change in 1959 when Alaska and Hawaii joined the Union. Note also the Bishop's Crook lampposts. Many of these light fixtures dated from the 1920s or '30s and today they largely have been replaced, although they also have been reproduced for placement in certain historic areas. The Times and the Daily News are still seen on newsstands; the New-York Tribune ceased publication in 1966.
Arthur Getz
Original cover art
The New Yorker, November 1, 1952

Swann Galleries September 29, 2016 Illustration Art, Sale 2423, Lot 279

Arthur Getz
The New Yorker, November 1, 1952
Of the different years represented by the artwork here, only 1962 was not a presidential election year. The lever voting machines were brand new at the time. The American flag now bears fifty stars.
Arthur Getz
Original cover art
The New Yorker, November 3, 1962

Swann Galleries September 29, 2016 Illustration Art, Sale 2423, Lot 280

Arthur Getz
The New Yorker, November 3, 1962

This artwork depicting a campaign whistle-stop was purchased by the magazine in 1948 but never ran as a cover. It was officially killed in 1964 by which time television had completely transformed the nature of presidential campaigns.
Arthur Getz
Proposed New Yorker cover art, 1948 (killed 1964)
Swann Galleries September 29, 2016 Illustration Art, Sale 2423, Lot 281

The Republican Party often reminds us it is the Party of Lincoln. The convention of 1948 nominated presidential candidate Thomas E. Dewey.
Arthur Getz
Original cover art
The New Yorker, June 19, 1948



Arthur Getz
The New Yorker, June 19, 1948
The above prices are the hammer prices. Below are the prices realized including the buyer's premium. 



Note:  Attempted Bloggery is the place to share scans or photos of original art by Arthur Getz.

Arthur Getz's website may be found at getzart.com.

Get out there Tuesday and vote, people.


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