Finding aid for Julio Payró letters received, 1937-1971, bulk 1940-1955
Finding aid prepared by Onica Busuioceanu.
Descriptive Summary
Title: Julio Payró letters received
Date (inclusive): 1937-1971 (bulk 1940-1955)
Number: 990020
Creator/Collector:
Payró, Julio E., 1899-1971
Physical Description:
354.0 items
Repository:
The Getty Research Institute
Special Collections
1200 Getty Center Drive, Suite 1100
Los Angeles, California, 90049-1688
(310) 440-7390
Abstract: The collection comprises 354 letters from 116 correspondents sent to the Argentine art critic Julio Payró between 1937 and
1971.
Request Materials: Request access to the physical materials described in this inventory through the
catalog record for this collection. Click here for the
access policy .
Language: Collection material is in
Spanish; Castilian
Biographical / Historical Note
Julio Payró began his career as a painter, studying with the Uruguayan artist Joaquín Torres-García in Paris and Barcelona
(1907), then with William de Gouve in Brussels from 1912 to 1918, after which he returned to Buenos Aires. In 1928 he decided
to work solely as an art critic, building a reputation as a major analyst of 20th century art movements in Argentina and Latin
America.
Administrative Information
Access
Open for use by qualified researchers.
Publication Rights
Preferred Citation
Julio Payró letters received, 1937-1971, bulk 1940-1955, Research Library, The Getty Research Institute, Accession no. 990020
http://hdl.handle.net/10020/cifa990020
Acquisition Information
Received 1999
Processing History
Processed by Onica Busuioceanu
Related Materials
Pettoruti, Emilio, Letters to Julio Payró, 1924-1957, bulk 1952-1957, Research Library, The Getty Research Institute,
Accession no. 2001.M.18
Scope and Content of Collection
The collection comprises 354 letters from 116 correspondents sent to the Argentine art critic Julio Payró between 1937 and
1971. There are 7 letters by Payró: one is a carbon copy, the others are written as answers on the backs of letters received.
Two thirds of the correspondents are artists, mostly from Argentina and a few other Southern American countries; some are
European-born émigrés to South America. The other third are intellectuals, including art critics and historians, writers,
editors, publishers, anthropologists, poets, scholars, journalists, professors, art collectors, sociologists, and the Chilean
dancer Ana Itelman.
With rare exceptions, the correspondents are thanking Payró for helping them to get grants for studies in Europe, or financial
help to publish their works. Most of them are grateful for Payró's reviews of their works. The artists write to Payró about
their struggles in Paris, their work, their hopes, their exhibitions. The group of 40 letters in this collection related to
Payro's book
Veintidos Pintores, published in 1944, documents his dedication to promoting modern art in Argentina.
Among the most significant letters are those from the painter and poet Eduardo Jonquieres (19), the writer Eduardo Mallea
(7), Victoria Ocampo, the founder of the
Sur review (9), the Uruguyan writer Juan Carlos Onetti (48), the Argentine artist Luís Seoane (3), the Uruguyan painter Joaquín
Torres-García (9), and 23 from the Argentine painter Emilio Pettoruti, whose correspondence of earlier years is also in the
Getty Research Library (Special collections accession number 2001.M.18.)
Arrangement note
Arranged alphabetically.
Indexing Terms
Subjects - Names
Castro, Sergio de, 1922-
Jonquières, Eduardo
Mallea, Eduardo, 1903-1982
Ocampo, Victoria, 1890-1979
Onetti, Juan Carlos, 1909-1994
Pettoruti, Emilio, 1892-1971
Seoane, Luis
Torres-García, Joaquín, 1874-1949
Subjects - Topics
Art critics--Argentina--Correspondence
Artists--Argentina--Correspondence
Artists--Uruguay--Correspondence
Authors--Argentina--Correspondence
Authors--Uruguay--Correspondence
Painters--Argentina--Correspondence
Painters--Uruguay--Correspondence
Sculptors--Argentina--Correspondence
Subjects - Titles
Sur
Veintidos Pintores
Contributors
Castro, Sergio de, 1922-
Jonquières, Eduardo
Mallea, Eduardo, 1903-1982
Ocampo, Victoria, 1890-1979
Onetti, Juan Carlos, 1909-1994
Payró, Julio E., 1899-1971
Pettoruti, Emilio, 1892-1971
Seoane, Luis
Torres-García, Joaquín, 1874-1949
Box 1, Folder 1
Acosta, Vladimiro,
1955 Feb 17
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The architect (1900-1967) writes Payró from Los Angeles, where he works in construction, learning to deal with wood and stucco.
Describes his impressions about this "large village" full of dazzling contrasts.
Box 1, Folder 1
Anderson Imbert, Enrique,
1941-1943
Physical Description:
5.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The writer and critic (b.1910) is working on an essay about Payró's father, the novelist Roberto Payró. His letters are all
about this important author, whom he will also present at his University courses in Tucumán.
Box 1, Folder 1
Aran, Artemio,
1951 Nov. 20,
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The painter and writer (b.1899) thanks Payró for sending him the wonderful book by Larra he has read with delight.
Box 1, Folder 1
Badii, Libero,
1962 Oct. 15
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The sculptor and painter (b. 1916) confesses that, despite the public success of his exhibition, he returns to his studio
with concern that his art has not reached yet the desired level. The letter is illustrated on the verso with a cityscape in
ink.
Box 1, Folder 2
Baitler, Zoma,
1950 Sept. 26
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The painter (1908-1994) is grateful to Payró for the interpretation of his art, and to his master Torres García for his guidance.
Box 1, Folder 2
Battle Planas, Juan,
1956 Aug 22
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The painter (1911-1966) informs Payró that he is sending 3 works to the exhibition presented at San Martin Library, listing
the titles, sizes and prices.
Box 1, Folder 2
Beristayn, Jorge,
1940 Sept 6
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The artist (1894-1964) thanks Payró for the essay he published about his work.
Box 1, Folder 2
Berni, Antonio,
1945 May 7
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The neo-realist artist (1905-1981) refuses to send photos of works for Payró's dissertation at Michigan University, because
he does not understand modern art neither from the historical nor aesthetic points of view.
Box 1, Folder 2
Bianco, José,
undated
Physical Description:
2.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The writer (1909-1986) sends Payró two letters with explanations and excuses regarding a supposed offense.
Box 1, Folder 2
Bigatti, Alfredo,
1941-1944
Physical Description:
4.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The sculptor (1898-1964) thanks Payró for the presentation of his work, emphasizing the importance of meeting someone who,
by his thinking, helps him understand and realize his potential. Two letters are signed together with Raquel Torres.
Box 1, Folder 3
Bonome Alejandro,
1951 Feb 17
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The artist (b. 1915) informs Payró how he would like to schedule his exhibitions after the one opening in Witcombe this year.
(Córdoba)
Box 1, Folder 3
Bouts, Bernard, Buenos Aires,
1949 July 5
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The painter and sculptor (1909-1987) invites Payró to his studio to see his work and tell him his opinion, although they generally
do not agree. Payró transcribed his answer in French on Bout's letter.
Box 1, Folder 3
Brughetti, Romualdo, Buenos Aires,
1945-1952
Physical Description:
4.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The art critic and author (1912-2003) congratulates Payró for his book
Veintidos pintores, published in 1944. Invites him to give a lecture at the Sociedad Argentina de Escritores. In 1952criticizes him for omitting
the important contribution of Argentine artists in the 1901-1911 decade, as well as of the painter Faustino Brughetti. Thanks
Payró for the kind words about his recent work "Italia y el arte Argentino."
Box 1, Folder 3
Butler, Horacio, Buenos Aires,
1940-1968
Physical Description:
4.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The painter and stage designer (1897-1983) thanks Payró for the catalog introduction of his Ateneo de la Boca exhibition.
In 1964 he declines the invitation to participate in the Venice Biennial. In 1968 he thanks Payró whose words have given him
the illusion that, even at 71, his work is still worth exhibiting.
Box 1, Folder 4
Candia, Domingo, Paris,
1949 Dec 28
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The constructivist painter (b. 1897) has doubts about his art, and must start anew.
Box 1, Folder 4
Cañas, Carlo, Buenos Aires,
1962 Apr 15
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The painter (b. 1928), recently returned from Europe, asks Payró to do him the favor of an introduction for the catalog of
his first exhibition.
Box 1, Folder 4
Careño, Annibal, New York,
1949 Nov 17
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
Writes Payró that he works hard, painting and also teaching at the New School. Describes exhibitions seen, declaring that
the dealers have "a bad time," as people are buying cars, frigidaires, and TV sets.
Box 1, Folder 4
Centurion, Emilio, Buenos Aires,
1944 Dec 24
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The portrait painter (1894-1970) highly appreciates Payró's understanding and impartiality about his work.
Box 1, Folder 4
Cochet, Gustavo, Funes,
1957 Aug 15
Physical Description:
3.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The artist (1894-1979) complains about Gomez Cornet who rejected the works he had sent to the salon of Tucumán, and encloses
a copy of his reply to Cornet. Both are on letterhead with reproductions of his works.
Box 1, Folder 5
Córdova, Iturburu Cayetano, Buenos Aires,
1970 May 19
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine writer and art critic (1902-1977) answers a pessimistic letter from his old friend Payró, reminding him that
his merits have been fully recognized.
Box 1, Folder 5
Coutaret, Manuel Emilio, Córdoba,
1940 Dec 17
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The painter (1892-1971) thanks Payró for the review of the XXX Salon. The critic had justly perceived in his work the hesitations,
which will continue until he finds his own "estructura formal".
Box 1, Folder 5
Couture, Eduardo, J., Montevideo,
1952 Feb 5
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Uruguayan jurist (1904-1956) congratulates Payró on his excellent introduction to the beautiful book about Florence by
Perrens.
Box 1, Folder 5
Castro, Josué de, Rio de Janeiro,
1950 Jul 17, 1950 Jul 30
Physical Description:
2.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Brazilian anthropologist (1908-1973) sends two letters to Payró thanking him for the wonderful translation of his book
Geografia da Fome [Geography of hunger]. Letterhead of Instituto de Nutriçao, Universidade do Brasil.
Box 1, Folder 6-9
Castro, Sergio de, Paris,
1952-1964
Physical Description:
46.0 items
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine painter, settled in Paris from 1949, sends Payró 28 letters from 1952 to 1964. The art critic organizes for
De Castro exhibitions in Buenos Aires and Montevideo, selling his work mostly through the Bonino gallery in Buenos Aires.
The artist informs Payró about his exhibitions in Paris and their reviews, his success with the public, and the 300,000 Fr.
he made selling his work. He also describes his new techniques as he changes them over the years. The collection includes
lists and sales catalogs from Buenos Aires galleries Bonino and Van Riel, with prices, and 4 photographs of the artist with
some of his works.
Box 1, Folder 10
Delhez, Victor, Chacras de Coria,
1941
Physical Description:
3.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The engraver and illustrator (1902-1985) discusses in two aggressive long letters the critical review published by Payró in
Sur about his xylographic illustrations to the Gospel. The second letter was triggered by Payró's answer to the offended artist,
also included in the collection.
Box 1, Folder 10
Delvaux, Paul, [Brussels],
1953 Feb 21
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The surrealist Belgian painter (1894-1994) writes, in French, a nostalgic letter to his friend about the years when they were
studying painting in Brussels. He brings him up to date about his family, his work, and his ideas about modern art.
Box 1, Folder 10
Domínguez, Lorenzo, Mendoza,
1962
Physical Description:
3.0 items
Scope and Content Note
The sculptor (1901-1963) needs help from the Fondo Nacional de las Artes for the publication of his book about the petroglyphs
and pictographs on Easter Island. He is also preparing an exhibition of his own work. A clipping from
Los Andes daily of 25 March 1962 reproduces the third talk with professor Domínguez about Easter Island .
Box 1, Folder 10
Echagüe, Juan Pablo,
undated
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The president of the Comisión Protectora de Bibliotecas Populares congratulates Payró for his brilliant presentation of Delacroix
he gave on their radio program.
Box 1, Folder 10
Editorial Losada, Buenos Aires,
1941 Mar 11
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
Contract between the publisher Losada and Julio Payró for a book about the Argentine painter Raquel Forner, to be published
in the new collection of Monografías de Arte.
Box 1, Folder 10
Erro, Carlos Alberto, Buenos Aires,
1948 Apr 12
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The author and President of Sociedad Argentina de Escritores (1903-1968) comments on Payró's letter about politics and democracy.
Box 1, Folder 11
Farina, Ernesto, Cordoba,
1951 Feb 13
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine painter (b.1912) thanks Payró for suggesting the Bonino gallery for his exhibition, which Cordova Iturburu had
already suggested.
Box 1, Folder 11
Ferrant, Angel, Madrid,
1952-1953
Physical Description:
5.0 items
Scope and Content Note
The Spanish sculptor (1890-1961) sends Payró 3 letters about his life and difficulties, his work and thoughts. The letter
of April 1953 includes his thank you address to a donor of Puerto de la Cruz art museum. In September 1953 he congratulates
his friend for the book about Impressionism. A Christmas card illustrated with one of his sculptures was sent on 25 December
1953.
Box 1, Folder 11
Forner, Raquel, Buenos Aires,
1946-1949
Physical Description:
3.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine painter (1902-1988) thanks Payró for his understanding of the inner world of her painting, and his inspiring
words. Congratulates him for his lecture about Goya and his rebellion against tyranny.
Box 1, Folder 12
Gálvez, Manuel, Buenos Aires,
undated
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The renowned Argentine writer (1882-1962) informs Payró that his father, Roberto, sent in 1904 by
La Nación to Montevideo to gather information about the revolution in Uruguay, wrote the articles signed "X Equis" in that periodical.
Box 1, Folder 12
Gigli, Lorenzo, San Fernando,
1965 Nov 28
Physical Description:
2.0 items
Scope and Content Note
The artist (1896-1983) sends a portrait of Payró's father, Roberto. It was among his works to be published that day, but could
not be printed because of the crayon he had used on it.
Box 1, Folder 12
Girondo, Oliverio,
1949 Nov 17
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The poet, one of the Argentine avantgarde founders (1892-1967), answers Payró's questions, identifying some names. Confesses
in joking style that he also paints, and sends a copy of his
Veinte poemas as a sample.
Box 1, Folder 12
González, Garaño Alfredo, Buenos Aires,
1950 Aug 18
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The collector and member of the Academia National de Bellas Artes congratulates Payró for his article published in
La Nación.
Box 1, Folder 13
Guardia, Alfredo de la, Buenos Aires,
1950-1969
Physical Description:
6.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The letters cover a 20 year friendship that started in April 1950, when la Guardia was an editor at
La Nación. He wrote at that time to Payró about the pleasure he had editing his essays, and his real talent as art critic. In his letters
of the sixties, la Guardia, now a history of theater professor, and Pyró a recognized art critic, is glad they both abandoned
the newspapers supplements for a more intellectual level of publications, but remembers nostalgically their talks at
La Nación.
Box 1, Folder 13
Huyghe, René,
1948 Oct. 28
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The French art historian (1906-1997) thanks Payró for his book about Pettoruti, which offered him important information about
the great Argentine painter (on letterhead of Direction des Musées de France).
Box 1, Folder 13
Itelman, Ana, Buenos Aires,
1949 Aug 26
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Chilean dancer (1927-1989) regrets he did not attend her last two recitals, since his attention compensates for the lack
of stimuli from an uneducated public.
Box 1, Folder 14-15
Jonquieres, Euardo, Paris and Piriápolis,
1959-1971
Physical Description:
19.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine painter and author (1918-2000) writes from Paris, where he settled after 1958. The letters from 1959 and early
sixties describe his busy life, earning money with illustrations and a job in a printing house, while doing his daily hours
as an UNESCO counselor, also writing and painting a lot. In January 1961 he informs Payró that there are 40,000 painters in
Paris, of which about 80 are Argentine. Most of the 6 letters from 1962 express Jonquiere's disappointment about current art
and politics. That year he writes a book about Roberto Payró, the writer (his friend's father) to be published soon; participates
in exhibitions, and abandons his geometrical painting for a totally new style. The seven letters from 1970-1971 were sent
from the seaside resort of Piriapolis in Uruguay, between visits to Buenos Aires. His new book,
Bestiario, will be published there the following year by the Fondo Nacional de las Artes.
Box 1, Folder 16
Kazuya, Sakai, Horco Molle,
1959
Physical Description:
2.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine painter and scholar (b.1927?) writes about the courses and seminars he will be giving that academic year about
the philosophy of visual arts in Japan, describing the main concepts to be analyzed. After the courses, he is finishing the
translation of the introduction to the Buddhdistic Zen.
Box 1, Folder 16
Krasno, Rodolfo, Paris,
1960 Dec 17
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The painter and engraver (1926-1982) who is in Paris with a grant from Fondo de las Artes, asks Payró for one year extension
to achieve his "perfeccionamiento en Europa." Payro's note: "Contesté 17/12/60"
Box 1, Folder 16
Lacámera, Fortunato, Buenos Aires,
1946 Apr 10
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The artist (1887-1951) sends Payró a grateful note for his generous words about his modest work.
Box 1, Folder 16
Lange, Norah, [Buenos Aires],
1948 Oct 18
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine writer (1906-1972) invites Payró to a party at her home, where he will meet poets, writers and painters, including
Pettoruti.
Box 1, Folder 16
Larco, Jorge, México,
1955 Dec 21
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine painter (1897-1967) is happy about the successful revolution and the fall of Perón. Congratulates his friend
for the nomination in a high position he fully deserves.
Box 1, Folder 16
Larreta, Enrique,
1946 Jan 2
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine writer (1875-1962) informs Payró that he has been out of town for five months, and does not have photos of the
two "chismes" he asked for. He will ask the photographer of theAcademia de Bellas Artes to do them.
Box 1, Folder 16
Le Parc, Julio, Paris,
1960 Apr 21
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The artist (b. 1928, one of the Groupe de Recherche d'Art Visuel founders in 1960) sends an enthusiastic answer to Payró,
who has deeply understood his work.
Box 1, Folder 16
Lozza, Raúl, Buenos Aires,
1952 Sept
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine painter and author of new art theories (b. 1911) informs Payró that he has sent him all the issues of
Perceptismo he had asked for, and would be glad to fully inform both critics and scholars about the goals of non-figurative art.
Box 1, Folder 17
Malanca, José, Córdoba,
1950 Aug 30
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine painter (1897-1967) invites Payró to the inauguration of his most important exhibition, although he knows that
his impressionism cannot interest the critic.
Box 1, Folder 17
Mallea, Eduardo, Buenos Aires,
1941-1970
Physical Description:
8.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
One of the letters is from Payró. The letters speak of Payró's long friendship with an important Argentine author, the writer
Eduardo Mallea (1903-1982). In a letter sent in the 40s, when Mallea was an editor at
La Nación, he congratulates his friend for the translation of André Lhote's book
Traîté du paysage. Another is an introduction letter for the Chilean surrealist painter and writer. In 1947 he informs Payró about some of
his family portraits by Benjamin Franklin Rawson. In October 1970 Mallea sends an emotional answer to a letter from his lifetime
friend, remembering his outstanding qualities and his moral and intellectual generosity. One week later, Payró answers in
kind, with his own recollections.
Box 1, Folder 17
Mandello, Jeanne and Arno, Montevideo,
1950 July 13
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
Thanks Payró for his letter and article. The latter will be a great introduction for their exhibition. Signed Jeanne et Arno
Mandello, on letterhead Jeanne Mandello (in French).
Box 1, Folder 18
March, Horacio Gerardo, Buenos Aires,
1944 Sept 21
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The painter (1899-1978) thanks Payró for the letter about his drawings, and for the presentation at his exhibition in La Plata.
Box 1, Folder 18
Maria (unidentified), Paris,
1962
Physical Description:
5.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The author of these letters is a close friend of Payró, and very close to the Argentine writer Julio Cortázar, who lives in
Paris with his wife, the translator Aurora Bernádez, both mentioned in Maria's letters. She intends to write a play, and an
essay about "La Simpatía," but at Paryró's suggestion she is writing stories. Maria refers to Payró's answers, but it is not
clear if all these letters were written to him. Each letter contains news about Julio Cortázar, whose latest novel,
La Rayuela is to be published that year.
Box 1, Folder 18
Minujin, Marta, Paris,
1961-1962
Physical Description:
2.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The young Argentine artist (b. 1941) thanks Payró after receiving a grant to see all the marvels of Paris. Describes her first
steps and hard work, her first pieces accepted in an Argentine exhibit, her hope for a French government scholarship.
Box 1, Folder 18
Montenegro, Adelmo Ramón, Córdoba,
1952 May 14
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The art critic and university dean (b. 1911-1994) invites Payró to give a course of several classes about modern painting
at the Ateneo Filosófico in Córdoba.
Box 1, Folder 18
Noel, Martin, Buenos Aires,
1949 May 30
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The art historian and architect (1888-1963) congratulates Payró for the honor (honrosa distinción) awarded him by the Academia
de Artes y Letras of Havana (on letterhead Academia Nacional de Bellas Artes).
Box 1, Folder 18
Ocampo, Miguel, Buenos Aires,
1951 Sept 20
Physical Description:
2.0 items
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine painter (b.1922) thanks Payró for the letter of recommendation he wrote in support of his request for a grant
to make a study trip to the United States. Payró's letter of 10 Sept. 1951 is included.
Box 1, Folder 19
Ocampo, Victoria,
1961-1971
Physical Description:
11.0 items
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine author (1890-1979), founder of the important
Sur review, was a friend of Payró, a frequent contributor to that publication. Only 3 letters are dated (961, 1969 and 1971);
they are a mixture of friendly thoughts and references to current events or publications. Six letters are related to Payró's
contributions to "Sur," written on letterhead of the review. An undated letter informs him about a lunch offered to Indira
Gandhi and her retinue of 25 persons at the San Isidro residence of Ocampo, to which only some writers and musicians will
be invited. An invitation for Payró and a business card of Mr. & Mrs. Rajeshwar Dayal are included (undated).
Box 1, Folder 19
Oenslager, Donald, New York,
1950-1960
Physical Description:
4.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The American stage setting designer and author (1902-1975) was introduced to Payró by a letter signed by Henry Allen Moe,
on letterhead of the Guggenheim Memorial Foundation, dated Jan. 23, 1950. An undated letter of Oenslager was obviously sent
soon after his return from Buenos Aires to New York. He explains to Payró his professional projects, including the settings
for several plays for the fall. He mentions that many projects of all kinds are now being delayed because of "our serious
situation in Korea."
Box 2, Folder 1-6
Onetti, Juan Carlos,
1937-1955
Physical Description:
48.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Uruguayan writer (1909-1994) worked as a journalist in Buenos Aires and Montevideo (where he made a living as a car salesman),
and started to write books in 1939. The letters to Payró are a continued diary, which relates almost everything he did from
1937 to the late 40s, and almost everything he thought about, discussing artists and writers like Cézanne, Matisse, Faulkner,
Maugham, Kipling, Proust, to name a few. The letters relate his enthusiasms and disillusions, his hopes and joys, alternating
with pain and insecurity drowned in alcohol and tobacco. In 1938 he is scared by the fascist menace and its consequences in
Europe and South America, where refugees from Eastern Europe start arriving. In 1941, with Payró's help, Onetti obtains a
permanent position at the Reuter agency in Montevideo. He sends an undated happy letter to his friend in Buenos Aires after
the fall of Peron's dictatorship in 1955. The collection includes a letter from his cousin and second wife, María Julia ,
from June 1938.
Box 2, Folder 7
Ortiz, Manuel Angeles,
1943 Jan 29
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Spanish painter (1895-1984, saved by Picasso from a concentration camp in 1939), spent in Argentina his 9-year political
exile. He informs Payró with deep regrets that he cannot attend his friend's celebration ceremony as he must leave town next
day.
Box 2, Folder 7
Otta, Francisco,
1951 Nov 5
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The artist (1908-1999, settled in Chile) asks Payró if he could use the help he has promised him for opening an exhibition
in Buenos Aires. His previous one in 1942 received very good reviews.
Box 2, Folder 8-9
Pettoruti, Emilio,
1963-1971
Physical Description:
23.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine painter (1892-1971) continues his uninterrupted correspondence with his friend Payró after he settled in Paris
in 1953 (for letters from 1943 to 1957 see Acc. no. 2001.M.18). In 1963 Petoruti writes about his work, his future exhibition,
and the latest national and international politico-cultural gossip. In later years he will grow uneasy with American and European
politics. In 1964 he is writing his memoirs to be published in 1966. Two years later he is changing the way he paints, his
new works being much smaller. He asks Payró which of his works should remain in Argentina to represent his art. In the letter
he sent him the year of his death, Pettoruti confesses that there is no card catalog of his works. His wife died while she
was working on it and those papers were never found. A good wishes card of July 6 1961 is illustrated with a reproduction
of his collage "Il sifone" from 1915.
Box 2, Folder 10
Pierri, Orlando, Buenos Aires,
1951 Feb 2
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine artist (1913-1992) informs Payró that he has changed his painting after the second trip to Europe, and would
like to know his opinion. Invites him to his studio, and sends a few photos as samples.
Box 2, Folder 10
Piquet, Julio,
1944?
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The editor of
La Nación, congratulates Payró for his study about
Aduanero Rousseau, written in perfect prose, as a true son of his father.
Box 2, Folder 10
Pronsato, Domingo, Bahía Blanca,
1940 Dec 25
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine artist (1881-1971) is grateful to Payró for the analysis of his painting published in no. 74 of
Sur. He, and the other two critics, Romero Brest and Amador, have come, through different means, to rather similar conclusions,
which will guide him in his future work.
Box 2, Folder 10
Rebay, Hilla, New York,
1949?
Physical Description:
2.0 items
Scope and Content Note
The collector and Director of the Guggenheim Foundation sends Payró a hectic letter written in various directions as she added
new pieces of information. She is offering him color slides he could use for his lectures about the Foundation's paintings
and Kandinsky. She describes the new museum. On the corner of the first page she added a chronology of her collecting. She
sends a photograph of herself at her home in Greens Farms, Connecticut is dated Easter 1949.
Box 2, Folder 10
Rebuffo, Victor L., Buenos Aires,
1945, 1951
Physical Description:
2.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The artist (1903-1983) sends Payró six photos of his works, instead of those printed on transparent Japanese paper, which
could not have been useful for his purpose. Both letters convey Rebuffo's congratulations to Pairó for honors received.
Box 2, Folder 10
Rinaldini, Julio, Buenos Aires,
1946 Sept 5
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The art critic tells Payró that he needs to further consider their possible collaboration.
Box 2, Folder 10
Rojas Paz, Pablo, Buenos Aires,
1951-1953
Physical Description:
2.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine writer (1896-1956) sends a long, friendly and ironic letter about himself, his writing, and other writers. The
second letter (1953) accuses Payró of some offence related to writers who published in
Sur review. Payró wrote his own answer on the back of the letter, denying the allegation.
Box 2, Folder 10
Roman Rojas, Samuel, Santiago,
1950 June 30
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Chilean sculptor (1907-1990) is happy that Payró intends to write a monograph about him. That would help him continue
his work despite his enemies at the University. A letter to the sub-secretary, a friend of Payró, about the book he is planning
would also strengthen his economic situation with the Public Administration, now rather shaky.
Box 2, Folder 11
Romero-Brest, Jorge, Buenos Aires,
1969 Sept 23
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The influent Argentine art critic (1905-1989) apologizes for something published in
Panorama about Pettoruti which offended Payró.
Box 2, Folder 11
Romero, José Luís, Adrogué,
1968-1969
Physical Description:
3.0 items
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine writer and historian (1909-1977) sends his friend a 2 page letter in verse, a thank you note for information
about Scandinavian art, and a letter discussing some conceptual interpretations.
Box 2, Folder 11
Salazar, Toño, Montevideo,
1946 Oct 23
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Salvadoran caricaturist (1900-1985) thanks Payró for the article he published in
Qué about his "esperpentos" (ugly things).
Box 2, Folder 11
Sanchez, Ideal, Tucumán,
1949-1950
Physical Description:
2.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine painter and engraver informs Payró that he has obtained exhibition space at the Gallery Müller in October. Payro's
opinion about his art has made him feel more secure, and he will return to Buenos Aires, then try to go to Europe.
Box 2, Folder 11
Satanowsky, Isidro, Buenos Aires,
1943
Physical Description:
2.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
Julio Payró answers the request of Dr. Satanowsky to advise about the projects submitted by four artists for the mural decoration
of the Sociedad Hebraica Argentina building. Dr. Satanovsky respectfully does not agree with his order of choices.
Box 2, Folder 11
Seoane, Luís, La Coruña (Spain),
1969-1970
Physical Description:
3.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
Three long letters from the Argentine artist (1910-1979) reflect his passionate temperament, his creative energy and his involvement
in ethnic and social issues. He keeps Payró informed about his projects in Spain before and after a visit to Argentina and
London in 1970. The third letter is mainly his comment about the famous 1969 English movie
Alfred the Great.
Box 2, Folder 12
Serrano, Pablo, Montevideo,
1949 Sep 21
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Spanish sculptor (1908-1985) informs Payró that he is preparing a stone relief for a Montevideo square. On letterhead
with initialled drawing.
Box 2, Folder 12
Serrano Plaja, Arturo, [Buenos Aires],
undated,
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Spanish antifascist poet (1909-1979), who lived in exile, expresses his gratitude for the job he obtained at the
Clarin thanks to Payró's help.
Box 2, Folder 12
Shand, William, Buenos Aires,
1948 Aug 13
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Anglo-Argentine poet and writer (b. 1902) would like Payró to see the ten paintings made by his friend, the Dutch painter
Bob Gesinus Visser, during his visit to Buenos Aires on his way to Paris.
Box 2, Folder 12
Sibellino, Antonio Silvestre, Buenos Aires,
1942-1953
Physical Description:
3.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The three letters sent by the Argentine sculptor (1891-1960) to Payró over the years describe his thoughts about art, the
gift of those involved in it and the times in which it is created. Thanks Payró for his article about sculpture published
in
Ars of July 1953, in which he generously gave a privileged place to Manes Curatella and to him.
Box 2, Folder 12
Spilimbergo, Lino Enea, Tucumán,
1949
Physical Description:
2.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine artist (1896-1964) sent Payró both letters while he was the Director of the Instituto Superior de Artes of the
National University in Tucumán. He could not obtain decent compensations for professors, so they cannot benefit from Payró's
and another specialist's valuable courses.
Box 2, Folder 12
Svanascini, Osvaldo, Osaka,
undated
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Argentine art critic (b.1920) informs Payró about the extraordinary things he saw and learned on his trip to New York,
Paris, Holland, Belgium, Italy, and Japan. On letterhead of International Hotel, Osaka.
Box 2, Folder 13
Torrallardona, Carlos, San Antonio de Padua,
1969 Mar 30
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The painter (1913-1986) is grateful to Payró for his homage.
Box 2, Folder 13
Torre Guillermo de, Buenos Aires,
1951 Jul 10, 1951 Jul 25
Physical Description:
2.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
These letters were sent by the writer (1900-1971) to Payró to coordinate the publication of the letters they will each send
to
Sur to be published in the same issue.
Box 2, Folder 13
Torres García, Joaquín, Montevideo,
1940-1944
Physical Description:
9.0 items
Scope and Content Note
The Uruguayan painter (1874-1949) keeps his friend Payró up to date with his activities, which for him mean painting and teaching.
In 1940 he has happily adopted constructivism, which has led him to "cosas originalísimas." In 1943 he has opened a 200 painting
exhibition of his disciples' work. In 1944 he enjoys the most relevant successes: the Premio de Honor at the Salon, and an
"homenaje" at the University for his 50 years of work "in and for" painting, his studio and his school. Payró is invited to
give a speech (a letter from the Comisión Organizadora del Homenaje is included). In November 1944 the artist is ready to
fight the enemies of constructivism, as half a million pesos allocated for school mural decoration is at stake. But he and
his wife have been sick, and he is exhausted: "Julio, ya no puedo más - estoy enfermo y cansado de todo."(Nov. 3, 1944).
Box 2, Folder 14
Ucar, Emilio, Montevideo,
1949, 1951
Physical Description:
2.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The Uruguayan writer and editor (1910-1984) sends a 4 page letter of analysis of Payró's writings. The second letter expresses
his gratitude for the text about French painters Payró sent to be published in their new review
Resalto, and another text to come from Guillermo de Torre.
Box 2, Folder 14
Uriarte, Carlos Enrique, Rosario,
1948 July 18
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The painting professor at Bellas Artes school in Rosario thanks Payró for his lectures and for all he learned from their conversation.
Box 2, Folder 14
Urruchúa, Demetrio, Buenos Aires,
1945 May 10
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The painter and muralist (1902-1978) informs Payró that he has no photos of his works, and gives him a long list of museums
and persons in the United States who could provide them at his request. He won't spend time on that, because he is not interested
in critics, and does not believe that their words could have any impact on the fate of artists' creation.
Box 2, Folder 14
Valmaggia, Juan, Buenos Aires,
1948 Sept 15
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The editor of
La Nación thanks Payró for the generous words written to him when he was in a difficult professional situation.
Box 2, Folder 14
Vergara Grez, Ramón, Santiago de Chile,
1956 May 10
Physical Description:
3.0 items
Scope and Content Note
The Chilean painter and author (b. 1923) tells Payró that he would like to meet him for some good talks about current art.
Included: a photo of "Interior" with signed dedication on back from May 1956; a clipping from "El Mercurio" of Apr. 29, 1956
of an article and self portrait by the artist.
Box 2, Folder 14
Wagley, Charles Walter, Gurupá, Brasil,
1948 Aug 25
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The American anthropologist (1913-1991) informs Payró that he quit the Guggenheim Foundation last year to dedicate himself
to teaching at Columbia University, and lately to four months of field research for UNESCO among the Brazilian population
in the Amazon.
Box 2, Folder 14
Wilenski, R. H., London,
1948 Oct 5
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The British author tanks Payró for his book on Pettoruti. He has been working on a Dictionary of Painters, and he will need
his help to include some important Argentine artists.
Box 2, Folder 14
Yepes, Eduardo Díaz, Montevideo,
1951, undated
Physical Description:
3.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The sculptor (b. 1910 in Madrid) sends Payró a figurine he might publish for any price (Feb.1951). An undated letter tells
Payró that his wonderful article about him immediately brought customers ready to buy or to place orders. A third letter announces
that the Torres García exhibition will be open at the Instituto de Arte Moderno. He will soon send him photos of his last
relief to be published in
Cahiers d'Art (undated).
Box 2, Folder 14
Unidentified signature, Córdoba,
1951 May 11
Physical Description:
1.0 letters
Scope and Content Note
The artist thanks Payró for the exhibition catalog that includes a note about his 25 paintings.
Box 2, Folder 15-16
Correspondence related
Veintidos Pintores,
1944
Scope and Content Note
The book by Julio E. Payró was published in Buenos Aires, Editorial Poseidon, Dec 1944. The file includes the template of
the letter sent by Payró on June 1 1944 to the 22 artists he intended to present in the book, asking for their consent and
specifying the necessary biographical information and reproductions of works to be published in the book. Each participant
will receive a free copy of the book. There are 40 letters received: 18 of acceptance, dated from June 1944, and 13 of thanks
for the book received in December. The other 9 letters are from artists complaining about difficulties in obtaining reproductions
of their best works. Unrelated letters from ten artists included in the book have been described in the inventory under their
names.
The 20 artists included in this book correspondence are: Aquiles Badi, J.A. Ballester Peña, Héctor Basaldúa, Norah Borges,
Horacio Butler, Juan Carlos Castagnino, Emilio Centurión, Gustavo Cochet, Daneri Eugenio, Juan Del Prete, Raquel Forner, Ramón
Gómez Cornet, Jorge Larco, Horacio Gerardo March, Onofrio A. Pacenza, Domingo Pronsato, Raúl Soldi, Lino Enea Spilimbergo,
Alberto J. Trabucco, Miguel Carlos Victorica.