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Wharton Esherick and the Birth of the American Modern explores Esherick’s artistic evolution during the early decades of the twentieth century, culminating in the exhibition of his work as part of the Pennsylvania Hill House at the 1940 World's Fair in New York City. Trained as an illustrator and painter, experienced in modern theater and dance, well exposed to new ideas in philosophy, politics, and literature, Esherick experimented with woodcarving and printmaking, laying the foundation for his emergence as an artist of remarkable range. -
This facsimile edition of a 1922 children’s book features seventy-three dynamic and whimsical woodcut illustrations—the first woodcuts that the famed American craftsman Wharton Esherick produced. A high-quality replica authorized by the Wharton Esherick Museum, this book reveals the foundation of Esherick’s direction as an artist. Edited by Museum director Paul Eisenhauer, it also features a foreword by Museum assistant curator Laura Heemer. The illustrations frame verses that introduce children to the principles of evolution, a highly controversial topic at the time: the book was published three years before the famous Scopes “Monkey” trial of 1925 that resulted in the inclusion of the teaching of evolution in public schools. Drawn by the excitement of the controversy, Esherick threw his passion into these illustrations. Afterward he would go on to carve over 300 woodcuts, leading to decorative carving, and ultimately, to Esherick’s realization that he was a sculptor rather than a painter. -
Looking for the perfect addition to your workshop overalls? How about our Esherick Stool Enamel Pin! A playful interpretation of Esherick's three-legged stool. It measures 1.25" x 1.5" and provides a perfect little reminder to stay inspired no matter what you're working on. -
Struck from Wharton Esherick's original woodblock; printed on Torinoko paper; comes unmatted & unframed. This print was a collaboration with UPENN and printed in 2012 *Please note: there is a small imperfection in the center of the woodblock that results in a scratch-like blemish in the print.* -
Available as a black print on mustard yellow t-shirt. 100% cotton -
Artist Wharton Esherick (1887-1970) is best known for his sculptural wood pieces and the way he applied the principles of sculpture to designs for functional objects. His pioneering work has made him an inspiration to fine woodworkers worldwide, helping to elevate the medium from craft to major art museums. Much of Esherick’s work is now on display in this rural studio he built on a hillside in Pennsylvania. This catalog documents, with beautiful color photography, more than 130 paintings, woodblock prints, sculpture, and utilitarian objects found at the Wharton Esherick Museum. One gains an appreciation for the range and depth of Esherick’s work when these pieces can be studied individually. -
Published by Rizzoli, this 224 page book introduces Esherick’s visionary work to a broader public with essays by scholars Sarah Archer, Colin Fanning, Ann Glasscock, Holly Gore, and Emily Zilber and photographs by renowned architectural photographer Joshua McHugh. -
A rich collection of imagery explores the actual homes of three of the most esteemed wood artist/craftsmen of the modern era: Wharton Esherick, Sam Maloofi, and George Nakashima. Tour the private homes of these masters and compare their innovation and vision through the medium of their own homes, gardens, and work areas. Step into their environments, where aesthetics are most accurately realized. You’ll delight in Esherick’s humble mountaintop home where straight lines were purposefully forbidden, and Maloof’s sprawling California home that expresses his inexhaustible creativity and industriousness. Nakashima‘s home is a harmonious marriage of Japanese influences with Pennsylvania’s rich natural resources. This book is a must-have for devotees of these artists, as well as aspiring woodworkers who want tutelage from the top. -
Memories by one of Esherick’s apprentices that includes interesting insights to Esherick's personality and working style. Authored by Horace Hartshaw, 2004. Paperback, 45pp. -
Looking for the perfect addition to your workshop overalls? How about our Porcupine Enamel Pin! A playful interpretation of Esherick's woodcut illustration for a collection of essays published by Centaur press in 1926. It measures 1" x 1.5" and provides a perfect little reminder to stay inspired no matter what you're working on.
