Collection context
Summary
- Creators:
- DeCelle, Edward Brooks
- Abstract:
- The Edward DeCelle Papers, 1969-2001, includes the correspondence, transaction records and research files of art collector and former San Francisco gallery owner Edward Brooks DeCelle.
- Extent:
- Number of containers: 2 cartons Linear feet: 2.5
- Language:
- Collection materials are in English
Background
- Scope and content:
-
The Edward Brooks DeCelle Papers, 1969-2001, includes the correspondence, transaction records and research files of art collector and former San Francisco gallery owner Edward Brooks DeCelle.
Coverage of Robert Mapplethorpe's earliest West Coast exhibitions, including the surrounding controversy, is particularly strong. As DeCelle was personally acquainted with many of the key players in that important moment in art history, an insider's viewpoint is frequently revealed. Other notable correspondents include Arthur Tress, Crawford Barton, Thom Gunn, and San Francisco socialite Katharine Cebrian.
- Biographical / historical:
-
Edward Brooks DeCelle was a gallery owner, curator, and fine art collector based primarily in San Francisco and Washington, D.C. Perhaps best known for the curation of the 1979 exhibit at 80 Langton in San Francisco entitled "Censored" showcasing the works of Robert Mapplethorpe, DeCelle was heavily influential in the gay renaissance of the 1970's and 1980's in San Francisco.
From 1972-1983, DeCelle ran the Lawson DeCelle Gallery in SF, which had a strong reputation as a waypoint for young, talented gay artists. He was also a founding board member of 80 Langton (now New Langton Arts) in San Francisco. He later moved to Washington D.C. and became highly involved in the art scene there. DeCelle donated countless works to galleries and museums across the United States, including the Corcoran, Getty, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, National Portrait Gallery, and the Whitney.
Other prominent artists represented by DeCelle include photographers Crawford Barton and Arthur Tress.
- Acquisition information:
- The Edward DeCelle Papers were given to The Bancroft Library by Margaret DeCelle on February 17, 2005.
- Physical location:
- Many of the Bancroft Library collections are stored offsite and advance notice may be required for use. For current information on the location of these materials, please consult the Library's online catalog.
- Rules or conventions:
- Finding aid prepared using Describing Archives: a Content Standard
Access and use
- Location of this collection:
-
University of California, Berkeley, The Bancroft LibraryBerkeley, CA 94720-6000, US
- Contact:
- 510-642-6481