Online content
Collection context
Summary
- Creators:
- Sotomayor, Antonio, 1904-1985.
- Abstract:
- Extent:
- 1 carton, 1 document case, 11 oversized flat folders, 1 matted pastel.
- Language:
- Preferred citation:
-
Antonio Sotomayor Papers. San Francisco Public Library, San Francisco History Center
Background
- Scope and content:
-
The papers contain correspondence, original and printed artwork, photographs, subject files, and realia. Of note are designs for the Palace Hotel (including dishware), costume designs for the San Francisco Ballet production of "Con Amore" (1960), set designs for the ballet "Emperor Norton I" (1957), and illustrations for Grison's, Trader Vic's, and other local businesses and events. Original artwork also includes caricatures and Christmas cards. Photographs include early images taken in Bolivia (1920s), and later shots of Sotomayor at work in the Palace Hotel, with members of The Family (including Diego Rivera and Timothy Pflueger), and as a member of the Arts Commission, among others.
- Biographical / historical:
-
Antonio Sotomayor was an artist. He was born in Bolivia in 1904 and came to San Francisco in 1923. Primarily known for his murals and paintings, Sotomayor was also an illustrator, caricaturist, designer, ceramicist, and educator. His work covered a broad spectrum from ballet set and costume design to book illustrations to painting and it was widely exhibited. He became known as the popular "artist laureate" of San Francisco where he lived with his wife, Grace. Antonio, also called Tony or Soto, was a member of the Bohemian Club and The Family Club, and designed or participated in the clubs' productions. He died on February 10, 1985 in San Francisco.
- Acquisition information:
- Donated by Antonio Sotomayor, his wife Grace Sotomayor, and their friend Bob Durden, in the 1980s (some pieces have the date received). The books donated by Grace are cataloged and available through the Book Arts and Special Collections department.
Indexed terms
- Subjects:
- Archives.
- Names:
- Sotomayor, Antonio, 1904-1985--Archives.
Access and use
- Restrictions:
-
Collection is partially processed and available for research use.
- Preferred citation:
-
Antonio Sotomayor Papers. San Francisco Public Library, San Francisco History Center
- Location of this collection:
-
San Francisco Public Library100 Larkin StreetSan Francisco, CA 94102, US
- Contact:
- (415) 557-4567