"APPRECIATING SLOANE"Dear Webmaster: I learned of Eric Sloane's work while in college, studying art. I picked up the book about Early American tools while in the library doing research. It seems we shared a fascination with early american life and craftsmanship. His black and white line drawings, particularly, have been influential, and I've turned a few friends on to him over the past few years.
On a visit to Chicago last year, I met a friend's uncle who had known Sloane through an american tool collecting association (the uncle has a collection of antique rulers and measuring devices), and I was amazed to meet someone else who knew of his work. I think the uncle was very surprised to meet someone under 30 who appreciated american history and tools!
It took me years to realize that he had lived near my hometown in CT and that there is a museum up the road in Kent that I have never been to, dedicated to him. I can't wait to visit next time I'm in the area. I was sad to find out that there is no anthology or collection of his work, nor a biography! Maybe someday?
Thanks again for the website!
Laurel Coniglio, l.e.coniglio@gmail.com |