They were the greatest illustrators in the history of automobile advertising. Over the course of 24 years, they collaborated on an incredible body of work for Pontiac, Buick, Mercury, and Opel. Their illustrations were seen by millions of people each week, but their work has never been adequately documented or their story properly told, until now.
THE BOOK
This new 200-page lavishly-illustrated hardcover book, produced in cooperation with the estates of Art Fitzpatrick and Van Kaufman, includes 196 illustrations, accompanied by insightful text based on years of research.
The author conducted many hours of interviews with Art Fitzpatrick and his collaborators, as well as colleagues and family members. The book reveals the stories of the people, processes, and techniques that produced these masterpieces of advertising art.
Unprecedented access to the artists’ archives reveals never-before-published sketches, reference photos, and color studies. The book also introduces three other artists who were part of the Fitz and Van team, whose contributions have never been adequately publicized.
The author made several trips around the country visiting museums and private collectors, photographing original illustrations for this book. Interview quotes from Art Fitzpatrick provide detailed explanations of his techniques for creating perspective, distorting cars for dramatic effect, and painting the mirror-like reflections that became his trademark.
This long-overdue retrospective of Art Fitzpatrick and Van Kaufman’s work is sure to please classic automobile fans, as well as those interested in illustration and vintage advertising.
