American Artist Magazine

(C) 2019 Photograph Dale DiMauro

As a birthday gift last April my father-in-law gave me several 1950 era American Artist magazines. Not only were there interesting articles on watercolor painting of the day, but the advertising was fascinating. 

Before the computer dominated how we communicated with each other, advertising was created primarily through hand lettering and drawing. Of course, this is not news to many of us. However, to page through these magazines you can really sense how important hand drawing had been.  

Not only were the ads created by hand but many of them were promoting drawing products such as charcoal, fountains pens etc., and how to use them. This appreciation of an aspect of the visual arts is no longer found in our current magazines.

Fortunately, there is in general, an increased appreciation for those with the ability to utilize freehand drawing.