On display through Jan. 4, 2014, in the Library for the Performing Art's Oenslager Gallery, the free, multimedia exhibition celebrates the Al Hirschfeld Foundation's latest gift of Hirschfeld papers and objects to the Library, and commemorates the 110th anniversary of his birth.
Curated by David Leopold, independent curator and Archivist for the Al Hirschfeld Foundation, "The Line King's Library" showcases the richness of the Library's collection, as well as the ubiquity of Hirschfeld's artwork over his eighty-two year career and beyond. Among the artwork on display are a selection of Hirschfeld's signature black and white drawings and prints, rare examples of his stunning works in color, and an array of his Broadway posters showing why he has been called "the logo of the American Theatre."
Incorporating videos and recordings of Hirschfeld discussing his own work and testimonials and memories from figures such as Arthur Miller and Whoopi Goldberg, correspondence with his friends and collaborators, and original artwork and posters from fellow artists and influences, "The Line King's Library" uses materials from a variety of the Library's collections to give new context and insight into Hirschfeld's life and legacy.
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts houses one of the worlds most extensive combination of circulating, reference, and rare archival collections in its field. These materials are available free of charge, along with a wide range of special programs, including exhibitions, seminars, and performances. An essential resource for everyone with an interest in the arts - whether professional or amateur - the Library is known particularly for its prodigious collections of non-book materials such as historic recordings, videotapes, autograph manuscripts, correspondence, sheet music, stage designs, press clippings, programs, posters and photographs. For more information please visit www.nypl.org.
