Recollections of Former AO Employees
Mike Leck holds his 1972correspondance with Norman Rockwell, along with a Tillyer Version of the 1933 AO Truvision medallion. The Truvision medallion along with copies of the correspondance and other AO Memoriabillia were donated by Mike to the AO Museum for future diplay.
The text of the 1972 correspondance with Norman Rockell is shown below. Two paintings of Norman Rockwell's that were of a collection of 6 paintings commissioned by AO were being asked about. Their subject matters involved card players and a boy with an Airplane.
Mike's letter:
May 8, 1972
Mr. Norman Rockwell
Stockbridge, MA 01262
Dear Mr. Rockwell:
Thank you for your kind offer to help us identify two of your oils that were done for American Optical Corporation.
I have enclosed photographs of the two paintings in question.
The only other information I can offer is that the paintings were probably commissioned by the Wells family of Southbridge (former owners of American Optical) and were probably done in the late 20’s or early 30’s.
We would be most appreciative if you could tell us the date the paintings were done, their titles, by whom they were commissioned, and, if possible, any interesting or unusual circumstances associated with the paintings.
Again, allow me to offer our gratitude for your assistance.
Very truly yours,
AMERICAN OPTICAL CORPORATION
Michael B. Leck, Editor
American Optical News
Norman Rockwells response
NORMAN ROCKWELL
STOCKBRIDGE
MASSACHUSETTS
May 9, 1972
Mr. Michael B. Leck, Editor
American Optical News
Southbridge, Mass. 01550
Dear Mr. Leck:
I am terribly sorry but I am afraid I can’t be of any real help to you in regard to the paintings in question.
I left New Rochelle in 1939 and I know they were done there prior to that time because I recognize the models. The only name I remember was the name of the little old gentleman with the big mustache, looking at the cards. His name was James Van Brunt.
I am terribly sorry I can’t be of more help.
Sincerely yours,
More on the Rockwell Paintings
Dick Whitney July 11, 2003
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Whitney