Joanelle Mulrain
Who do you think of when you see a brimmed, red-and-white striped hat that’s a million miles tall? Dr. Seuss! Theodor Seuss Geisel (American, 1904-1991), a.k.a. Dr. Seuss, created paintings and sculpture, and collected hats that were secretly stowed away for years in a hidden closet at his home.
These never-before-seen hats are part of Geisel’s private collection, along with prints and sculpture from the Art of Dr. Seuss Collection. There will be 26 original hats on exhibition, and limited editions of his artwork and sculpture will be available for patrons at Avondale Artworks (3562 St. Johns Avenue, 32205). Previews begin on November 23 (11 am-4 pm), followed by special presentations by Dr. Seuss Art Curator, Bill Dreyer on December 5th and 6th (6-8 pm) and a one-month show from December 5 through January 5. This is a MUST see for anyone who has read a Dr. Seuss book!
“His work reveals a personal message, a social commentary, and you have to look for it,” says Ken Stutes, owner of Avondale Artworks. “People are just beginning to learn about this secret art, which he did for his own enjoyment and to show to his wife, Audrey, and friends. Audrey is fulfilling his personal wishes and continuing his legacy as a progressive artist with a personal philosophy using his art as a messenger by developing this traveling exhibition–this showcases another dimension of Dr. Seuss.”
His second book, The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins, is now 75 years old, so a special exhibition was developed, Hats Off to Dr. Seuss! It is traveling with the best wishes of Audrey, Geisel’s widow. She generously opened the Estate’s legendary “hat closet” so we all can share in the excitement of his collecting. This, indeed, is one of the world’s most exciting and famous hat collections.
In honor of the 75th anniversary of The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins, a special Hats Off to Dr. Seuss! is paired together with the Secret Art collection into one exhibition. The artwork consists of authorized works which have been adapted and reproduced from Geisel’s original drawings, paintings and sculptures. It is guaranteed to raise eyebrows and ensure laughter.
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