Dynamic Defining Lines
Al Hirschfeld captures the unique vitality of Betty Hutton (1921–2007) in his theatrical caricature of her performing at the Palace Theater in a variety show. The drawing displays the hallmarks of Hirschfeld’s style—his fluid line that seems alive in tracing the contours and flowing motion of Hutton’s arms and graceful legs and patterning that sets off her face, figure, and movements. For more than seven decades Hirschfeld created compelling caricatures of the great performers of New York’s theater world that were published primarily in the New York Times. His elegant, linear style in pen and ink is instantly recognizable and has influenced and inspired succeeding generations of artists. The Library named him a “Living Legend” and celebrated his extraordinary career in a Swann Gallery exhibition in 1999–2000.
Al Hirschfeld captures the unique vitality of Betty Hutton (1921–2007) in his theatrical caricature of her performing at the Palace Theater in a variety show. The drawing displays the hallmarks of Hirschfeld’s style—his fluid line that seems alive in tracing the contours and flowing motion of Hutton’s arms and graceful legs and patterning that sets off her face, figure, and movements. For more than seven decades Hirschfeld created compelling caricatures of the great performers of New York’s theater world that were published primarily in the <em>New York Times</em>. His elegant, linear style in pen and ink is instantly recognizable and has influenced and inspired succeeding generations of artists. The Library named him a “Living Legend” and celebrated his extraordinary career in a Swann Gallery exhibition in 1999–2000.