The Prince: A Retrospective Exhibition of Work by Tony Curtis

I had the honor of attending the reception for Tony's art show held at UNLV.  Tony and Jill arrived looking beautiful, relaxed, and ready to greet friends, and fans alike.

People were in awe of his work, and many were surprised that Tony was right there greeting them, talking about his art styles, his creativity and his unusual works of art.  I had a lot of opportunity to visit with guests that evening, since I was passing out photo buttons of Tony's artwork to the attendees. (a gift from Tony and Jill) I had wonderful conversations and was able to hear first hand what people were saying.

As always, Tony was gracious and kind in visiting with all of the guests, posed for many photographs, and signed well over 100 autographs during the course of the evening.  Tony loves to mingle with his fans, not just sit behind a desk.  He is very accessible.  He stayed far longer than anyone expected, and was open to questions from students at UNLV.

There were paintings, lithographs, shadow boxes, sculptures and even sketch books on display.  Due to the number of people there, I didn't get the chance to photograph a lot of the art for you, but I am going back in January and will do so at that time.  It was incredible to be standing there amongst his work.

The turn out was wonderful. Many important people were there including the famous musical film director George Sidney and his wife Corinne.  When George and Corinne were married 12 years ago, the news papers and magazine said it wasn't a marriage, but a merger!  Between them they have a tremendous art collection.  They have good laughs over that.  Both were very happy for Tony, and impressed with his work.  George directed Tony in Who Was That Lady? in 1960.

What's odd, is for one night, I nearly forgot that Tony was an actor.  I was able to see him in an entirely different light, that of an artist.  Tony's use of color is what is most striking in his paintings.  One of my favorites was not at the show, but in Tony's studio nearly hidden behind a cupboard!  It was done in vivid lime green and just stopped me in total awe when I saw it.

My favorite painting at the show is pictured here for you to see.  (see below)  In contrast to his vivid colors, this one is more subtle and takes on an almost Southwest feel.  There is more to the picture than meets the eye, so please take the time to study it.  I welcome your thoughts on Tony's artwork, and will pass them on as time allows.

What seemed to attract the most interest at this gallery showing, was Tony's incredible boxes.  They can be called many things.  Shadow boxes, boxed collections, sculptural assemblages, collages. I personally call them works of art.

While growing up Tony's family moved a lot.  Whenever they were preparing for a move, his mother would put things into boxes for safe keeping.  Once settled, Tony would begin opening boxes to find the items inside had shifted in to groupings that took on new meaning.  It was from this early time he began seeing these as art forms.  Tony has spent a lifetime as an artist, so much so, that it's a wonder he had time for acting!

When on the set, Tony was always sketching, drawing or painting in between takes.  Art is a part of him.  It is an extension of Bernie, the core of Tony Curtis.  I hope in time to learn much more about Tony and his passion for creating.  It doesn't begin on a canvas or within a box.  His passion for life is exhibited in every aspect of his work, regardless of how it is combined or presented.

Talent?  Yes and No.  Art is an expression of ones self.  Tony is a very expressive man, his is an extraordinary artistic talent.

My favorite piece in the show!

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Copyright © 2006 Tony Curtis ~ A Man For All Ages

This site was last updated 03/23/06