Al Hirschfeld’s drawings stand as one of the most innovative efforts in establishing the visual language of modern art through caricature.
As a self described “characterist,” his signature work, defined by a linear calligraphic style, appeared in virtually every major publication in the 20th Century (including a 75 year relationship with The New York Times) as well as numerous posters, programs, book and record covers, and 15 postage stamps.
Hirschfeld said his contribution was to take the character, created by the playwright and portrayed by the actor, and reinvent it for the reader. Playwright Terrence McNally wrote: “No one writes more accurately of the performing arts than Al Hirschfeld. He accomplishes on a blank page with his pen and ink in a few strokes what many of us need a lifetime of words to say.”