September 06, 2006
FOR SALE: TERRYTOONS BACKGROUND ART
A long time ago, in a garbage dumpster far far away (in New Rochelle, New York, in fact), the Terrytoons studio closed its doors and threw everything away. Well not quite...
An employee of the company that bought the building from Paul Terry was sent in to inspect the new premises, and found dozens of file folders filled with animation art - mainly backgrounds from 1930s era black and white Terrytoons. This employee brought the material home and, 40 years later, has finally decided to part with this vintage, long lost material. Unfortunately, the various auction houses and animation galleries he contacted were not interested. As far as they were concerned, this material had little value "in the marketplace".
But this is rare material. Historic material. When he contacted me for advice, I knew I had to help him. In fact I've been contacted by several family members and heirs of noted animation artists over the years for advice on what to do with their inherited art. Most animation art dealers will tell you that unless it's by Chuck Jones or Walt Disney, or unless it features Bugs Bunny, Mickey Mouse or Snow White, its value is nil.
I'm not convinced of that. At least to some of us - the artists, the historians, and the fans - this stuff is gold. That's why I've decided to start a new page on my Cartoon Research website devoted to Art Sales. I never wanted to become an animation art dealer (and still have no intention to), but I now have several "clients" who would like me to help find the right home for their animation art. Take a look at the first offerings on my new page. I'll be posting more items within the next few weeks. All I know is these need to be preserved. Won't you help?