Usage conditions may apply for digital images, video, and sound recordings linked within SOVA collections. While digital content may be restricted, SOVA collection descriptions and catalog records are available CC0 for re-use. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page.
Archives of American Art
David Smith papers
Summary
- Collection ID:
- AAA.smitdavp
- Creators:
-
Smith, David, 1906-1965
- Dates:
-
1926-1965
- Languages:
-
English.
- Physical Description:
-
6 Microfilm reels
- Repository:
Scope and Contents
Scope and Contents
Correspondence; sketchbooks; sketches; scrapbooks; exhibition catalogs; photographs; business records; and printed material.
Scope and Contents
Correspondence, mostly routine business dealing with exhibitions, sales, purchases of equipment, and other business matters, and from family and friends in the art world, including Alexander Calder, Herman Cherry, Robert M. Coates, Helen Frankenthaler, Clement Greenberg, Robert Motherwell, Kenneth Noland, George Rickey, Marian Willard and others; sketchbooks, sketches, and notebook, annotated and relating to his sculptural work, 1930s-1940s; lectures, speeches, and writings; an 18 page transcript of an interview of Smith conducted by Thomas Hess, June 1964; photographs, mostly small snapshots of Smith's work, often annotated with descriptive information; scrapbook materials; articles; exhibition catalogs and announcements; and publications.
Biographical / Historical
Biographical / Historical
David Smith (1906-1965) was a sculptor from Bolton Landing, N.Y. Began his career as a painter. Studied at Art Students League. Married artist Dorothy Dehner. Was one of the first sculptors to develop a uniquely American abstract style. Worked in monumental style, incorporating painted metal and welding techniques into his work. Smith died in an automobile accident in May 1965.
Administration
Existence and Location of Copies
35mm microfilm reels NDSmith 1-NDSmith 6 available for use at Archives of American Art offices only.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
Lent for microfilming by Rebecca and Candida Smith.
Using the Collection
Conditions Governing Access
ACCESS RESTRICTED; written permission required.
Conditions Governing Access
Patrons must use microfilm copy.
More Information
Other Finding Aids
Other Finding Aids
Finding aid available at Archives of American Art offices.
Keywords
Archives of American Art
750 9th Street, NW
Victor Building, Suite 2200
Washington, D.C. 20001
https://www.aaa.si.edu/services/questions