SATURDAY,
FEBRUARY 1
An inauspicious
beginning.
Assorted symptoms, such as sore throat, aches and pains, etc.
followed hard upon an ice storm which prevented my attending the
CAA meetings in Boston. At least I got sick at home
instead of Boston. Now there is need to make a somewhat
different start on the sabbatical leave than that planned.
From a constructive point of
view, comparatively little was accomplished. I read
Art
and Life in Black America, which is still another free
handout of
Marshall Fishwick. The "lecture?" [sic]
was rather superficial, but did make a few points.
I've given considerable thought
of late to whether (or better how) we can approach this problem
if it arises in our own sphere of influence. At the moment
there seems to be two rather distinct problems independent of
the current "Afro-American" manifestations (best treated under
"current trends").
First, we have the arts of
black Africa. The purist historian in me argues that there
must be more precision than that now operational. I feel
that our tendency to lump it altogether under a simple ethnic
heading is self-defeating. And since the state of
historiography is so undeveloped, we need be rather
archeological in our study. Also, I wonder how we keep the
anthropological elements in proper balance. To paraphrase
Laurence Sickman, The History of Chinese Art becomes The History
of Chinese Art and Culture.
Second, we have the art of the
black American. Here there is a legitimately defined and,
I would argue, an approachable topic. The problem here is:
can we isolate it from the total art of America? If we
accept the thesis that a story of art in America which excludes
the black component is an incomplete story, so is the reverse.
Indeed, to isolate the black story may be more damaging than we
expect, since it would be as exaggerated in its storyline as
when we isolate America from Europe, and fail to see the
American as principally provincial.
And then, as for "recent
trends," I think we have a third problem which might be labeled
(in the visual arts) as assimilation-submergence (or who can
tell who did it) or as "black eclecticism" (or heritage
arbitrarily selected). I think, perhaps, I have a brief
article here for the
American Quarterly. Must try
it on for size.
Also did some reading in the
February issue of
Scientific American.
SUNDAY,
FEBRUARY 2
A day with little
accomplished other than some reading and sorting. The
cold (?) [sic] is well settled into the larynx and the
most constructive activity of the day consisted of periodic
naps. I did do some thinking on methods and projects, but
this was largely to salve my conscience. A more vigorous
start on scholarly activity would have been nice.
MONDAY,
FEBRUARY 3
In retrospect the
most significant contribution of today was the benefit from two
rather nice long naps. I think I am making some headway
against my ailment. Certainly I feel better today than
yesterday, but I wouldn't call my work significant. I did
finish the Scientific American, sort out some papers, and
did some reading in
Seventeenth Century Science and the Arts.
About all I'm good for today is sorting and some reading.
Hopefully tomorrow can begin a bit more vigorous a routine.
TUESDAY,
FEBRUARY 4
No one can accuse
me of starting the sabbatical with anything more than a cough.
I am constantly astonished at what the human body can
manufacture within the upper respiratory system. It is no
wonder that it is so difficult to get it "up and out."
Once out it has both a cohesive and adhesive quality that defies
description. As a result, the day was one of
convalescence. I did manage to clear the office a bit
more, finish the 17th Cent. Science & Art Book (of only limited
use), finish the Scientific American and read a bit in
Don Quixote. I'm afraid that some of my very ambitious
study plans will have to wait upon a return of energy. I
tend to need periodic naps, or rests. I suspect the
remainder of the week will be readings which can be done at home
and readily interrupted.
WEDNESDAY,
FEBRUARY 5
I do believe that
I am on the mend. I am not ready to renew the
exercises,
but that can soon phase in.
Finished reading
the most recent
Art
Journal and I do believe the
Magic
Theater piece could work for it. It will need adjustments,
however, in a few places—maybe not.
Read
Fred Licht's essay for his
Sculpture 19th and 20th Centuries. It was comforting
to see he too has problems of coping with the 20th Century.
Beyond these ventures I was not very productive (except in
getting it up and out).
Was asked
to be Vice President of the
Missouri Valley Chapter of the SAH
for the coming year, and I accepted the request to be nominated.
Hopefully I shall be able to do something here that will be
mutually creditable.
THURSDAY,
FEBRUARY 6
Reviewed
the Magic Theater article and made some adjustments based upon
my reading of the paper at
Lexington and Warrensburg.
Beyond that, the only significant achievement (beyond a few
chores) was to read the current issue of
Saturday Review.
I tend to get sieges of weariness which are countered only by
taking a nap. Nevertheless, I mustered my resources for
the cocktail party at
Chancellor Olson's, given for the
Department's faculty. It was quite pleasant, but it did do
me in. I am obviously feeling better, but hardly ready for
the hard paced routine of my imagination.
Ken Gangel
of KCRCHE called re: the Faculty Institute for next week.
I think my point was made (finally) that I would preside but not
really participate. We shall see.
FRIDAY,
FEBRUARY 7
Began
typing a final version of the Magic Theater article. I
modified the title to now read "Environmental Art in the Museum:
A Reaction to 'The Magic Theater.'" It is slow going, but
I think I have made all of the little adjustments needed.
I went to the
Nelson Gallery and obtained four b&w photos of
rendering of the projects. The renderings are better
suited for the concept than the finished works.
Unfortunately it is rather difficult to reproduce some of the
renderings and I can't be sure the ones I have will be anything
other than adequate. I gather this has been a major
problem all along—an adequate and comprehensive photographic
record.
While at
the Gallery I looked at the
new Henry Moore. I think it is
an excellent item, and since it is both typical and atypical I
find it far more exciting than the Time-Life sketch which was
considered a few years ago. The newly
installed and refinished Gallery I looks too virginal. It
is just a bit too bright—even for the Renaissance.
Continued
to read in Don Quixote and to mend. Both are slow
but steady.
SATURDAY,
FEBRUARY 8
Continued
to type the final version of the Magic Theater article. I
take it one page at a time to try to keep down the errors which
I find tend to increase as I push for speed.
Also, I
began trying to plan my approach to the main sabbatical project.
I've circled the matter several times, and I feel I need to
consider "how" historians of science classify their material.
I know that they make a major division at the end of the 16th
Century, and mark "modern" science from that point. This
already argues that art history classifications made [sic]
be prejudicial in looking at the material. Also, am I
dealing with the history of the book?
So
tentatively, I may begin by some general science (must include
technology?) history and a review of the history of print, and
of the book. Somewhere beneath all of this vague
searching, I intuit that the issue is "quality was mandatory for
major works," hence we may find higher achievement in these
printed books than in other publications.
Finally, we
attended a reception for
Professor Leaf (American Studies from
Durham). It began to get me very close to being a faculty
member since so many colleagues were there. So far I have
been able to turn off "shop talk."
Also, happy
to record that I now seem nearly well again. Considerably
more energy that in former days.
SUNDAY,
FEBRUARY 9
Finished
typing the text of the Magic Theater. Then managed to get
in some reading. Read the Abridged Report of the
President's Committee on Communication for the University of
Missouri. No comment needed. Looked over the most
recent issue of the
MASA Journal. I am not pleased
with the present layout. The current trends are not
advancing readability. Granted, there is no special
premium on tradition, but we certainly have gone astray in
permitting the burden of communication to fall on the receiver.
Did some
reading in the SAH Journal. Took in two openings at
local galleries. Things are not well when it comes to the
status of reporting the arts.
Haskell's influence was more
important than I thought. Currently the approach to sound
coverage of the arts in the community seems to be to stay equal
with the level of the offerings. But for the moment I see
no merit in poking into that arena. There is time for that
when it becomes more of an issue.
My health
improves, but the later afternoon and evenings are not my best
time. I still tend to come apart at the seams.
Saw the TV
version of
Midsummer Night's Dream by the Royal
Shakespeare Co. Quite interesting, especially in the
visual style mixture of 18th Century, 17th and whatever.
Well cast and well performed. But that did me in and put
me out of commission. Didn't even stay up for the news.
MONDAY,
FEBRUARY 10
Finished footnotes
and illustration captions for Magic Theater. Now to let it
set a few hours before proofreading.
Spent a period of
time circling the main research project, and decided that I
might as well see what the EWA might suggest. As I might
have surmised there is considerable material, and I shall begin
with a quick review of the article "Scientific and Mechanical
Works." This seems excellent for delineation of the
boundaries. The tie-in with the Baroque and the Scientific
Revolution is more than coincidental, I'm sure. Also, I
must confine myself to The Book (in the more advanced stages).
The EWA article on "Scientific and Mechanical Works" has proved
of value—rather thought-provoking.
Also the bibliography has some excellent leads.
For the
moment, it seems best to read widely and swiftly for a sense of
what has been done and what the problems are. Once I've a
feeling for the task at hand, then I suspect I best prepare a
hypothesis of some sort for a means to get into systematic
readings. The question unresolved is when to start looking
at the works. I feel that they will actually distract me
if I am not equipped with some sense of chronology and
objectives. No doubt
Joe Shipman could help resolve this,
and maybe the thing is to ask him to suggest an initial group of
works that are important to him. Ought to be ready for
that in another three or four weeks.
Proofed the
Magic Theater article. I'll have Jean read it before
getting the thing Xeroxed.
TUESDAY,
FEBRUARY 11
The morning
was spent in assorted chores, none profound. I did get by
the Nelson Gallery library and was able to confirm (in Art
Index) the lack of recent publications on subject of Black
American Art. Got the Magic Theater paper Xeroxed, and
I'll get it into the mail next week.
I have
continued my reading of background on history of science and
technology, primarily
Crombie. Also obtained (while
waiting on Xerox) some books from UMKC library. Checked
social science humanities index—same problem re: Black American
Art—no material.
By phone I
resolved a few mechanical matters with reference to the KCRCHE
Faculty Institute. I shall pick up
McCullough at the
airport.
Went to the
30 miles exhibit at the Junior League. Very society and
very ordinary. What is extraordinary is the aura which
these people can surround a rather nothing event.
There is
still some congestion, but each day is better, so I keep at it
until the urge to rest hits—and I rest. The best therapy
yet devised.
WEDNESDAY,
FEBRUARY 12
Today was a
reading day. Made headway in the Crombie, and went by the
bookstore and picked up several other books. No special
insights, but I hope to be able to develop the necessary feel
for their chronological approach and categories in another two
weeks. The relationship of the herbals to both medicine
and botany is one interesting wrinkle.
Received
the typescript biography for Who's Who in the Midwest.
They were concerned over the
middle name. At least our
boys have resounding middle names.
THURSDAY,
FEBRUARY 13
Mailed the
Magic Theater paper and took a copy over to
Ted Coe at the
Gallery. Then talked with
Col Peake
[sic] about relations of
UMKC and the Gallery. Outlined the
symposium idea for him.
After lunch
out with Jean, I read. The education section of
Saturday Review was grim reading—doom doom.
Unfortunately few bright ideas seem to rise up into view.
Then continued with Crombie in the history of science area.
Picked up
Joe McCullough at the airport and took him to the
Hotel
President. The evening consisted of a good launching of
the Faculty Institute in Art for KCRCHE.
FRIDAY,
FEBRUARY 14
All day at
the KCRCHE Institute acting as Chairman-Moderator. I
earned my meals and then some.
SATURDAY,
FEBRUARY 15
Finished the
KCRCHE Faculty Institute. By the time I got home at 1:30,
I discovered that I had been working harder than I had intended.
But I feel we accomplished something. Now I must write up
a report. Discovered also that since I am on leave from
UMKC, I am to get an honorarium for chairing the session[s?].
Well, well.
In the afternoon
the family went out to
Ward Parkway Shopping Center to look at
the
NASA space exhibit. The evening was just resting.
SUNDAY,
FEBRUARY 16
Other than some
magazine reading and TV watching, a day of rest. The
Institute did act as something of a drain.
MONDAY,
FEBRUARY 17
Mike Thomas,
Tom's son, was
killed in an automobile accident. A most unsettling thing.
On a more positive note, I
concentrated on Crombie, and some interesting patterns are
beginning to present themselves—e.g.
the discontinuity in science in the 15th Century.
Then in
the afternoon, I spent some time in
Linda Hall, becoming
generally familiar with the current layout. Did do some
reading in the area of botanical illustration, and I now begin
to think that it would be wise to run from 1400 to 1700 for this
study. That in itself would be quite a challenge. I
think I shall do some readings in cartography to see if there is
some parallel with what little I now sense of the chronology.
If so, then perhaps I'll be ready to discuss some of this with
Joe Shipman. No sense bothering him until I can see some
sort of pattern (for his reaction).
TUESDAY,
FEBRUARY 18
Spent
some productive time at the Nelson Gallery. The morning
was involved in doing some reading in the area for the proposed
(now titled) "Afro-American Art and Art in America: A Problem in
Methodology." After lunch at the Gallery, devoted time to
studying 15th and 16th Century German prints (largely excluding
Durer). There is a matter of technical maturity which few
artists had in woodcut.
Urs Graf begins to show some
sophistication. So there is a matter of resources for
pictorial representation for the writer. Whom can he get?
The difference in overall pictorial technique between 1460's and
1490's is astonishing. Accurate, naturalistic
representation of people is a series of contentions with line
(woodcut) or burin (engraving). Unfortunately, much of
this is still intuitive on my part, hence I still feel as if I
am not ready to make a major move. More reading is in
order, and I now feel that 1700 is indeed the best place to
stop.
The
Afro-American article is forming in the mind, and a topical
outline is in order today or tomorrow.
The
evening was centered on a visit to
Juanita Thomas (and I did get
a chance to talk to Tom on the phone). The Department will
act collectively—thanks to sound thinking and a willingness to
assume responsibility by
Nancy DeLaurier.
WEDNESDAY,
FEBRUARY 19
Read
Bland Chapters 4 and 5 on Book Illustrations. This was
after making a topical outline for the Afro-American Art
article. After Bland, and taking notes, read EWA on
Cartography. Some ideas there but not too many.
Began looking at
Annals of Printing. It is rather
interesting to speculate on printing technology as both an
influence on as well as a part of the story of science,
technology and illustration.
During
an interlude, I charted a Canada route.
Actually
covered a lot of ground, but mostly in knowledge accumulation.
THURSDAY,
FEBRUARY 20
Outlined
the KCRCHE Report and except for the College Art Journal
citation, gathered the sources. Next time I am in the
office, I shall bring home the appropriate issues.
Read in
the Annals of Printing, and then in the Saturday
Review. Both
Norman Cousins (on clear communication)
and Katherine Kuh ("What's an Art Museum For?") were on target.
Attended
the funeral of Mike Thomas. That sort of did it insofar as
concentration in the late afternoon or evening was concerned.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
Began
drafting the KCRCHE Institute report. The later morning
(while reading Crombie) brought
Louis Cicotello over with the
notice of his opening of an
exhibit at Park College on Sunday
afternoon.
In the
afternoon we went out to the
Agriculture Hall of Fame (and took
Chip Bloch along since Paul was his guest overnight and in the
a.m.). If developed along the initial lines, the Ag Hall
should prove to be a major center. Presently it is more a
depository of odds and ends (many interesting of course), and a
rigorous presentation of instructional displays is impossible in
the limited facilities (and collections). But it is worth
support and it has merit. Upon return I returned to Crombie.
The news
of the various clashes and destructive acts (especially
Berkeley
again) are extremely disturbing. I suspect less a national
conspiracy than emulation. Personally I do not object to
confrontation with the matter of direct dialogue as an
objective. But the anarchic and willful disruption, on the
thesis that only from ashes can the phoenix rise, is
self-defeating. The students will be put on committees and
they will be enveloped in the illusion of accomplishment, but
there will be a hardening of authority. And the latter
will hurt the faculty as much as the student. I have
always argued that in a university (as contrasted to the small
liberal arts college) the main "enemy" of the student was the
faculty who through inertia and selfishness lose control over
curriculum, standards, and even that word "relevance."
Unfortunately, I am not convinced that students are qualified to
know the consequential faculty from the pied piper.
Student evaluation probably works best at the negative end of
the scale, to identify the incompetent; but how can they assess
the value of the specialist who is dealing with subtle skills or
issues? Even among the faculty there is an admission that
we are in trouble as soon as we are out of our professional peer
group. However, the faculty has—historically—failed to
confront the student body (and the administration as well)
except as individuals. And these we make into
administrators. It is a troublesome issue.
Considering all things, this is a good term for me to be more on
the sidelines—I need to gain some perspective on what will be
waiting in the Fall.
SATURDAY,
FEBRUARY 22
A day of
small chores and odds and ends of activities. No
significant productivity to note.
SUNDAY,
FEBRUARY 23
After a
lengthy reading of the Sunday paper, turned to the KCRCHE Report
and finished the draft. It will type up (double space) as
a dozen pages—best ask them to do it single space. Will
call Gangel's office on Monday.
In the
afternoon, we went out to Park College to see Louis Cicotello's
exhibition. There seemes to be a nice attendance, many
students from the Department—a good sign. I wonder how
many knew I was on leave—no one said anything except "hello" to
me.
Did some
more reading in Crombie. I must say I never really placed
some of these events and people very carefully before.
This timing in science is (as with ancient Greece) generally
later than the presumed "golden ages" in the arts. I sure
would hate to draw some analogies—but industrialization and
technological developments of the 19th Century did follow the
18th Century. I have no idea of what I can do with this
except to suggest that stimuli (or criteria) vary.
My phlegm
came back with emphasis in the evening. Phooey!
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24
Reviewed
the KCRCHE Report and called Gangel. He is in only on
T[uesdays and] Th[ursdays].
Developed
that roll of film from the
summer—finally.
Read
assiduously in Crombie—about finished.
After lunch
I went to Linda Hall and spent an hour reading on cartography
and I heard Joe Shipman at the reference desk. Went over,
and the next thing was the usual stimulating discussion with
Joe, and I am all set up to begin work in the Rare Book room,
and to check out books as needed.
I had heard
from Ozzie Overby, in a note today, that
Hellmut Lehmann-Haupt is
now at Columbia. Turns out he is an old friend of Joe's so
I now have another exciting avenue of assistance in the matter
of keeping on track. Joe's enthusiasm is absolutely
contagious, and I may really get off the ground if I get
surrounded by knowledgeable and enthusiastic people.
After
talking with Joe, I now feel it best to concentrate on one area
at a time in consulting the books themselves. I will start
with Botanicals and Herbals since this is the area of longest
history and also an index to taste. We may have here, in
the fashion for certain types of illustrated books, a real
cultural element. Flowers and Birds but not Quadrupeds
please the patron. The exotic is important—insofar as
"pretty" is concerned. The role of color in printing is an
element. I saw it with 19th Century lithos, but 17th
Century engravings?
The atlases
will be next, I think. Lord, there is a lot to do, but it
is invigorating. Joe feels that I should not put 1700 as a
limit, but keep 1400.
TUESDAY,
FEBRUARY 25
Prepared
the letter for Joe to be given check-out privileges.
Finished Crombie.
Then off to
the Nelson Gallery to look at the
Vitruvius Teutsch published by
Petreius of Nuremberg in [the] 16th Century. Picked up
Hellmut Lehmann-Haupt book on
Gutenberg and the Master of
Playing Cards and brought it home where I read it in the
late afternoon [insert: and early morning]. I
learned some things and was intrigued by the hypothesis.
At the Gallery I had lunch with
Dunbar and we talked of these
various matters.
Also
managed to look in at the
Rockhurst Library. The wall
behind Eric's mural location was being finished in color.
Guess he will get his
installation on schedule.
Sadly the
cough has returned and I'm still getting up a lot of goop.
So I've made an appointment to see
Ed Twin.
WEDNESDAY,
FEBRUARY 26
Took Paul
to the dentist (for his
adjustment) and upon return, began
drafting the Afro-American Art paper. Then, after
beginning the Boas book, took a useful nap.
After lunch
it was off to Linda Hall. Began with the
Sitwell-Blunt
item on Flower Books and am now quite intrigued by this aspect
of patronage taste. We have both botanicals and art
catering to a specialized audience. The comparison of
Thornton and
Redouté,
within the matrix of the art of the time, is next; and after
talking with Joe Shipman, I have the Redouté
out and the Thornton on the way. There is probably an
article or paper in
The Temple of Flora as a document in
Romanticism. My conversations with Joe are most
stimulating and this was one object of the study, to learn from
that remarkable man.
The only
negative point was the high temperature in the Rare Book room.
But there is time to cope with that if it continues.
Did some
more reading in Boas in the evening. All in all, a good
day. The cough seems to have eased as well.
THURSDAY,
FEBRUARY 27
The morning
was spent with assorted chores downtown. After lunch—with
Jean and seafood—I went to Linda Hall. There worked with
Redouté and the obvious parallels
between the exotic flower books and the description of exotic
architecture made themselves evident. The entire approach
from Piranesi to Audubon are of one piece and probably aimed at
the same patron. This, of course, needs development.
In the
evening I began reading
Bagrow on Cartography, and I thought of
a possible relationship between the
voyages of discovery,
mapmaking and the landscape. This is also worth pursuing.
FRIDAY,
FEBRUARY 28
Amidst
miscellaneous little chores, read primarily in the Bagrow.
Did exchange some books at the Nelson Gallery. So ends the
first month. Some progress made, and I feel that I am
gaining momentum—but then I also feel better.
SATURDAY, MARCH 1
Spent most of the "study day" with
Bagrow on Cartography. This led to some
side excursions, and whether I can tie it together I still do not
know.
Went out to the Department to get
my mail (junk) and saw Eric there. He will be working on a
(still another) ten-year projection. I will of course help
him on that. We will get together some Sunday.
Finished reading the current
Saturday Review and in the evening we entertained the
Mardikes[es],
Rivas and DeLauriers. Just about right for me,
for a party.
SUNDAY, MARCH 2
Also a day of miscellaneous.
Finally printed the pictures taken on last summer's trip.
The boys helped—which didn't.
Continued
to work through the Bagrow on the History of Cartography and
possible I can now see how to develop a paper out of this
(tentatively titled—Cartography
and the Development of Landscape Painting).
MONDAY,
MARCH 3
Began the
daily (?) [sic] study of
French, hoping to up my
proficiency. As with the exercises for physical reasons,
began with the old graded material.
Bulk of the
day went to finishing the first draft of the Afro-American
paper. Now I shall let it cool for several days before
going over it.
Saw Ed Twin
in the late afternoon, and the blood pressure is holding fine,
and other elements seem O.K. too.
Did almost
finish Bagrow, will try to do so tomorrow.
TUESDAY,
MARCH 4
Continued
the French. Finished readings in Bagrow and still need to
do a review of the plates in the book.
Went out to
Avila to turn in the report on the KCRCHE Institute, and after
discussion with Gangel gave the O.K. to "finish the job" at a
follow-up session in
Excelsior Springs in early May. Then
visited with the art faculty of Avila.
Spent about
two hours at Linda Hall on
Fine Bird Books, and feeling pooped,
came home. Read in various magazines and went to bed
early.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5
After some
more French, I worked out on the "estate." Began cutting
down the
mulberry tree that is crowding the house as part of the
chores. That is a job—still
need to get on with it.
Spent later
morning and early afternoon at the Gallery on the matter of
Cartography. Found an exhibit and a title which I need to
pursue.
Finished
the March Scientific American. And in the evening
took
Matthew to the
Plaza Library so he could get books for
"book reports" (on 3x5 cards no less).
THURSDAY, MARCH 6
More
French, did the Bagrow illustrations and went to Linda Hall in
the a.m. Returned Bagrow, obtained two other books,
finished the Sitwell et. al. Fine Bird Books. After lunch,
obtained some garden-type tools at Sears and did some yard work.
After recovering, I read the one book on Mapmaking and
discovered it to be aimed at the 12-to-15 age group.
Nevertheless I read it for its generalizations, and happily
found that I could sweep right through it. Neither the
Gallery nor Linda Hall had the exhibition catalog of the
Baltimore exhibit of maps and I shall try downtown as well as UMKC. If neither has it, I guess I'll try Columbia
library. Of course KU might have it and here begins the
problem of search and find. Possibly inter-library loan
will be the simplest answer.
Did some
miscellaneous other readings.
Ray Browne of Bowling Green
called to ask some questions re: the 2nd national meeting of
ASA.
Ah memories!
FRIDAY,
MARCH 7
First
French. Then, after some reading, went to the
Plaza to
have a suit "cut down" to match my current measurements.
After that, returned for additional reading in
Lynam. In
the later afternoon took off for the
Gashland area, north of the
river. We had dinner at
Dolce's and then attended the
wedding of Juanita Thomas and
Ralph Curry in a church nearby.
I hope this provides a happy ending to the many-part saga.
As we returned, it began to snow.
SATURDAY, MARCH 8
Began with
some snow removal which Paul continued. Then turned to
income tax efforts. An excursion out of doors for various
things and then finished Lynam. Read a bit in Boas.
All in all a slow day for compensation. The income tax
awaits a couple more sessions before the data is ready.
SUNDAY,
MARCH 9
Took Paul to the
Unitarian Church today. He is ripe for seeing the
nature of church service, and yet rather easily taken by
ceremonials. This has opened a
new door for
him, and I believe at about the right level, since
Ray Bragg
was dealing with a sticky theological question on the matter of
Jesus—Past, Present and Future.
The major
productive activity of the day was computation of the Federal
Income Tax. It is in draft form, and needs one minor
correction. We can see the need to increase the
withholding to cover our situation.
In the off
moments from the above, I continue to read in Boas,
Scientific Revolution [sic].
I have also been able to keep tabs on the many adventures of Don
Quixote—principally before going to
sleep at nights.
MONDAY,
MARCH 10
Continued
with the French. Went to Linda Hall to return two books,
and to get a "recent"
Ptolemy.
Found nothing recent! Did obtain an 1893
"Elucidations" by Rylands which I checked out. Must
return to the issue of Ptolemy publications. Later at the
UMKC Library—the
same thing. Not even in
Loeb
edition. Took over note and check re:
Phi
Kappa Phi installation and initiation. Went over to
Payroll to increase the withholding. Then back home via
the bookstore for some folders. The reading notes need
sorting out.
At home I
went through the Rylands and discovered that there is
"geography" and "chorography"
and later I must add topography. The first two
distinctions are of interest if I am to pursue the cartography
and landscape relationship. Also finished the Hofer
Baroque Book Illustration—not too much. There are
many things to think about and I must note that I don't have
them clearly in mind. The concept of science itself, prior
to the 20th Century, is a factor. Continued with Boas.
TUESDAY,
MARCH 11
After
French I went to Linda Hall and worked over three editions of
Ptolemy. Also discovered that perhaps only one English
translation exists despite a most extensive history of
publication.
Continued
to deal with Boas, and then went over to Rockhurst to see the
dedication of Eric Bransby's mural there. All went well—it
certainly looks good, and I returned for more reading in Boas.
Later in the late evening there was a TV show on the
Fresco
Exhibit that was in N.Y. last Fall.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12
Another
session on French, then off to the Nelson Gallery.
Continued bibliographic review re: the cartography matter—no new
leads. Then into the print room, where I concentrated on
Italian prints. Didn't see the
Mantegna nor the Pol but I
suspect they are boxed independently of the run of the mill.
The Italians had a rather curious early style in their lines,
almost like a dry point in the edge, the burin may have been a
factor—broad short strokes often noticeable. No
identification by the Gallery, they don't even know its origin
insofar as their having it.
Previewed
the
photography exhibit in sales and rental. It was still
in process of installation.
In the
afternoon I was immersed with
Ortelius and Mercator. After
stuffing my head with quantities of maps, I am now ready to go
back to the flower books and the herbals, but I think I shall
hold off and do some office work—review materials, work on an
article or two, etc. I do have materials at home for study
and use.
THURSDAY, MARCH 13
A slower
day today. First French, and then began reading rhe Art
Journal. Took some time out to summarize my thoughts
on the cartography and landscape painting theme.
Jean and I
went out for lunch and a bit of shopping, and upon return we had
a letter from niece Sherry who is planning (?) [sic] one
of her adventures which tentatively includes us. The
composition of an appropriate reply took time.
Then off to
the Nelson Gallery for the opening of the
ceramics exhibit.
Also open, but with the formalities to be later in the evening,
was a fine photography exhibit in sales and rental.
Considering the time (around 6 p.m.) and the crowds, Jean and I
plan to return tomorrow afternoon so that she can see it more
conveniently.
The
remainder of the evening was not much beyond talk and reading.
FRIDAY,
MARCH 14
French.
Finished the Art Journal, and then began reworking the
Afro-American article. Jean and I went over to the Gallery
at noon to look at the exhibits again. After return to the
house I continued on the article. The content is there,
but the language is still quite clumsy, and so that must be
corrected and polished.
Took Paul
to get new frames for his glasses. And with a few odds and
ends, so went the day. Received one call re: the
university, and while I devoted some time to answering
Geo
Phillips in his concern over the use of space at the building
once the Library moves, I did not become involved. I
simply cannot nor will I become a direct participant. I
will not, nor can I anguish over some of these matters without
having knowledge of the issues. But that is hard to
explain to those who anguish easily.
SATURDAY, MARCH 15
Began by
doing some outside chores. Then after some errands, did
some French. Afterwards began the rewriting of the
Afro-American article. Other than that, little of
consequence.
SUNDAY,
MARCH 16
French.
Took Paul to the Unitarian Church again. Also continued
the redrafting of the Afro-American article. Labored in
the back yard for a while, with real help from Paul.
Read in
journals, finishing articles of interest [in the] SAH [and] MASA
journals. Finished the magazine called
Journal (a
Church of Christ publication?) which was sent to me and
concentrated on Negro history matters. The special issue
of Psychology Today on Creativity in the Arts did not
turn me on at all.
MONDAY,
MARCH 17
Numerous
little chores. But also did French, typed up the
study
trip for the income tax, and did some looking at the Journal
for [sic] Negro History in the stacks of the library.
Obviously there is no interest in art history (in the broadest
term of the visual arts) during the past decade.
In the
early afternoon went over to Linda Hall to work on The Temple
of Flora, but nose began to run so I cut it short [sic],
checked out two books and returned home for some
Contac.
Read during the afternoon and part of the evening on The
Temple of Flora.
Saw some
films, taken by the latest Apollo crew, of the
moon landing ship
on a TV special. Astonishing.
TUESDAY,
MARCH 18
First
French, then off to Linda Hall to work on The Temple of
Flora. Did do some background study on the
Egyptian
campaign of Napoleon in order to put the book in a context
suggested by part of the text.
After Linda
Hall, I went over to Rockhurst and looked at Eric's mural and
then over to
Massman Hall for a look at the exhibit by the
15
(?) [sic] black artists. Rather a pedestrian
display, and except for some Martin Luther King things, much had
no significant content except for black models. Even the
photography was rather modest in size and content. All of
this does not prove anything except to say that the
justification of the show was in the group rather than in their
work. By and large it would not get the artist into any
show of consequence on a competitive basis, simply because the
quality was low. Reminded me of student work and the
anguish students have when they feel it is necessary to exhibit
as a group in order to get exhibited, and this with a negative
attitude toward the more public displays which "conform to
taste."
In the
afternoon continued work on the Afro-American paper. Also
did some work on the yard. A stuffy head doesn't help very
much. Also bought some new shoes for Matthew. Life
is a multiplicity of little activities.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19
Outside of
some yard chores and shopping errands and a haircut, the effort
was [on] the Afro-American paper. Did do French and some
readings on Herbals.
THURSDAY, MARCH 20
French.
Then readings in Herbal History. Lunch out with Jean, more
reading, then off to see
The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.
Ran into
the girls from the department at the theater, so
invited them home for a drink. After dinner, went to the
Nelson Gallery to hear a lecture on 18th Century English country
house interiors.
FRIDAY,
MARCH 21
French,
some reading in various books—mostly
Arber on Herbals.
Miscellaneous chores including shopping expeditions. The
outdoors claimed some time and attention, since this is an
activity dictated by weather and the season.
SATURDAY, MARCH 22
Skipped the
French and turned to a morning of outside chores. Paul
assisted. Read in the afternoon and concentrated on Arber
and Herbals, but also continued some in Boas. While with
Arber I got the thought (from where?) to check on that booklet I
have on the flora in the
Unicorn Tapestry. Another tie-in?
In the evening it was the Greek Dinner and I had a pleasant,
really non-shop talk with Eric. The
boys sat themselves so
I guess we can say that they youth sat.
SUNDAY,
MARCH 23
Paul and I
went to church. After lunch I called the
Bel Air East and
made reservations for next weekend. Skipped the French
again and did some reading in Arber. It is prudent to just
stay easy once in a while.
MONDAY,
MARCH 24
French.
Continued the drafting of both income tax returns, now pretty
well ready to submit them in April (since I owe them money).
Took the car in for service prior to the trip this weekend.
Read in Boas and just about finished Arber except for some
notations of titles.
TUESDAY,
MARCH 25
Took Paul
to the dentist for his adjustment. Returned to read
French. Afterwards did a couple of errands and then
finished Arber and continued with Boas. In the afternoon
continued to work at the [Linda Hall] Library where I reviewed
the facsimile of the
Dioscorides Vienna Codex and worked with
the
Gart der Gesundheit and
Brunfels. Also
discussed matters with Joe and he laid out additional material.
Then got a new French dictionary.
After
dinner I went to get the mail while going to the store.
There was a miscellany, but it included a note from
Henry Hope
saying that he hoped to be able to use the Magic Theater article
in the Fall Art Journal. Will let me know
definitely later on. Read in the
Preservation News,
which is devoted (double issue) to
Belle Grove.
I note that
I have a conflict (this Friday) with the local chapter of the
SAH. I am to be vice-president—I'm not doing a good job of
[attending?] the meetings ([missed?] three in a row except for
the Preservation conference). Well, that can't be helped.
I'll call Joe Oshiver and explain.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26
French, and
then a long fruitful session at Linda Hall. In the
afternoon I worked on preservation of the old
scrapbook (mine),
picked up the typewriter from the shop and took Matthew to get
his watch. Did some reading and other desk-type chores.
THURSDAY, MARCH 27
French,
then errands. The afternoon spent at Linda Hall. Had
a good session with materials and had a long discussion with Joe
Shipman. Tomorrow we head for St. Louis, and that took
some time.
FRIDAY,
MARCH 28
Off to St.
Louis for the MASA meeting tomorrow.
Nice, quiet trip.
Stopped at the
City Art Museum before going into the center of
the city and the motel. The most obvious thing was the
reinstallation of the Far East section. Very tasteful and
I noted other readjustments. In general there seems to be
respectable progress which is gratifying. There was a
unusual and interesting educational presentation of
Bingham's
Jolly Flatboatmen. The contemporary sculpture
continues to impress me. Also the restaurant has been
modernized. It is quite effective. There was no
special exhibits open, so it was a walk through to see progress.
And there was progress.
Good.
Leaving the
Museum we noticed flags at half-mast. Dwight D. Eisenhower
has died.
SATURDAY, MARCH 29
Went to the
MASA meeting. Seemed a little more strained than I had
expected, only to discover that
Martin Hasting had left the
order and St. Louis University and arrangement had been rather
hurried. One paper on Quarters and Slavery was good.
Became quite happily reacquainted with people. Had a
chance to talk with Ozzie Overby. Life in Columbia is a
bit tough. Did a little looking around after the meeting
was over, and
so went the day.
SUNDAY,
MARCH 30
We began
the return home via a visit to
Shaw's Garden. Concentrated
on the Climatron. Still an extremely impressive
experience. Then it was the "river route" to
Jefferson
City. Saw Washington and Hermann for the first time.
Both still have much of the 19th Century river town quality,
although I doubt that there is much [insert:
architecture] of major consequence in either on the basis of a
brief "round the blocks." Possibly I might cut off again
at some later time and do a more careful review, but not by way
of the river road.
In
Jefferson City, after a late lunch, looked at the
Lincoln
University campus and then to the State House. We received
permission to go into the lounge where the
Benton mural is
located. The room seemed to be set up as a Republican
caucus room. The murals have been recently cleaned by
Sid
Larson of Christian College, and they look in fairly good
condition. I attempted some black and white photos.
For the first time I realized what the painted architectural
moldings were doing, and I could see how the multiple
images-scenes work. The room is a fairly long and narrow
rectangle with three doors and three windows. The spaces
between the windows are corn stalks and derricks, hence merely
fillers. The function of the fake architecture is to
remove the corners "A" and "B: and create five major areas, one
[insert: each] around each door and one each, larger, of
which "A" and "B" are integral. This brings into effect a
much different space (than the actual).
The
painting is rather freely drawn, like [Benton's] late 20's easel
works, and the color is rather pronounced. The painting
dominates the room, yet hangs on the wall largely because the
space moves up and back (as is typical in the Benton manner).
The wainscot is fairly low, hence the pictures can be seen at
face level as well as up to a rather ornate, neo-classic frieze.
Since the room was filled with chairs and a curious table
organization, it was awkward to move about, but I did manage to
absorb the essentials. The lighting is fairly good, and I
shall see if I get anything with the camera. [Notes on
camera settings and film selection]
Then we saw
other odds and ends of the building and went back onto the
highway to home.
Summary [Detailed
notes on mileage and expenses] Total miles 591.
Total cash outlay $40.51.
MONDAY,
MARCH 31
I was
pooped, and did little beyond some reading. Just plain
tired. So ends the second month.
TUESDAY,
APRIL 1
French. Finished the two
income tax returns which I mailed on the way to vote on the
school levy. Then returned by way of the UMKC bookstore to
pick up the Lehmann-Haupt book on
The Book in America,
and some other items. On return I finished "preserving" my
old scrapbook with the acetate covers, etc. After some
shopping on the Plaza, I engaged in cooking and reading the
latest edition of
Giedion's Space, Time and Architecture
(21 years after reading the first edition).
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2
Paul's 12th birthday. After
taking care of some desk and budget routine, I took Jean
downtown and the boys over to the
K.C. Museum. It has been
a long time since I was at the K.C. Museum, and the major
displays are—in order of
excellence—natural habitat, geological, women's costume and
American Indian. Local history is neglected to the point
of meaninglessness. My feeling is that they should get out
of the historical (let Jackson County Historical,
Westport etc.
do that) and concentrate on Science & Technology. But my
opinion isn't solicited, so I shall keep my tongue.
Took the
boys to lunch, then the store and returned home. Did
another section of French and then back to Giedion. Good
to read him again. Then it was birthday-party time.
Later in the evening the boys called
my mother in L.A. and spoke
with her.
THURSDAY, APRIL 3
French and
some minor chores. Took Jean with the boys to a
movie, and
while they were there I did some desk chores. After
picking them up, I helped Paul build his
crystal set (which
worked) and managed to do some yard work. A bit [of]
reading (mostly Saturday Review) completed the productive
work.
FRIDAY,
APRIL 4
Good Friday
and the anniversary of the
death of Martin Luther King.
Went out to the Department to deposit some things (e.g. last payment
to Lee Anne Miller for the prints) and picked up a fistful of
stuff. Included was the Phi Kappa Phi materials.
Then some French. Continued general readings—e.g.
Saturday Review, Scientific American. Seem to have
trouble focusing my mind.
SATURDAY, APRIL 5
Started
with a few chores, then French. Finished the last part of
the last story in the first book, so ready to start the second.
I try for comprehension rather than precise translation,
although I won't skip words or passages until "translated."
I figure that as the vocabulary builds up again, I can polish
subtleties of grammar.
Matthew
received his watch from the Bel Air East—trust
he learned his
lesson.
I finished
the National Trust publication on Belle Grove, and did
additional readings in Boas. Reviewed the KCRCHE
Reports—which I finally received. Did some letter writing.
SUNDAY,
APRIL 6
Easter
Sunday. Some reading and some desk activities, but little
besides that.
MONDAY,
APRIL 7
Fair amount
of French. Talked with Eric Bransby and set up a time,
next week, to develop the ten-year projections. Did
various chores about the house and garden, and got off a group
of letters. Finally finished the Boas book, did more with Giedion. Developed a roll [of film] from recent trip and
discovered that the House Lounge in Jeff City apparently had
five windows, one additional right in the corner. Well, I
was most interested in the painting.
TUESDAY,
APRIL 8
French.
Read in the current
Art Bulletin. Some chores and
read in the
Praeger series on Fauvism.
Muller (the author)
neglects to document—very irritating, although he does maintain
narrative. Printed the roll developed last night.
There is evidence that I have gotten very careless in settings,
etc. I am hurrying and even got one slightly out of focus.
First time for that in a long time. Then in the evening
processed the last exposed roll on hand (one all with flash)
only to discover a blank film. Immediately checked the
camera, and discovered the flash switch on M instead of X.
Who knows how long that has been, at least since last October.
I am thoroughly disgusted with the careless practice but I note
that I haven't become pressurized. Shot some check [insert:
flash] exposures and will shoot a couple-three outdoor shots and
[insert: will] develop the film tomorrow to confirm (?) [sic]
the source of the spent roll. While I lost some "birthday"
shots, they are less important than the evidence of careless
procedure. I have always argued that photography should be
orderly—but in the turmoil of the past year I've treated it as a
chore with the justifiable results. Finished by
reading in Giedion.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9
French.
Then after some reading, I went out to the Department for a
short visit. From there over to the Nelson Gallery.
Talked with
Ross Taggart about the forthcoming
Napoleonic
exhibit. I will explore avenues for university-level
participation. Then back home. All of this on foot—a
very pleasant day. Continued to read in Giedion.
THURSDAY, APRIL 10
French.
Processed the test roll, and all is O.K. again re: setting and
such on the camera. Began reviewing the Afro article.
Then, after lunch, spent a long session at Linda Hall, including
a good conversation with Joe. Am now well into
investigating the travel and discovery-exploration books.
Quickly lighted onto the
Perry expedition and this calls for
further study, especially about it as a vehicle for presenting
Japanese art to the U.S, After working with the boys on
their homework, I did some checking at the UMKC library re: Perry and noted some
Snyder items worth reviewing. All in
all a very productive day.
FRIDAY,
APRIL 11
French.
Then off to Linda Hall. Looked at additional voyages
material, and a monumental one on a
Scandinavian expedition, in
French, is a truly ripe Romanticism item. Must go over
that in a methodical way. Contemporaneous with the mature
Delacroix. After lunch, went to Snyder and UMKC library to
expand the Perry material. The Perry report on Japanese
art is of consequence, and it should be explored. I wonder
if Library of Congress has any of the original material.
I'll have to check on inquiry procedures.
While doing
coals for skewered marinated meat, read in Giedion.
SATURDAY, APRIL 12
Mostly
chores about the house. Went to the Nelson Gallery where I
met Harold Wethey who was with
Gerry Fowle, and had lunch and a
stroll through painting galleries. A charming two hours.
Also did some reading in Giedion.
SUNDAY,
APRIL 13
Church with
Paul. Continued work on the Afro-American revision.
Attended an opening at
Lawrence Gallery for
Henry Koerner
(visiting Park College). Continued to read in Giedion.
MONDAY, APRIL 14
French. Then turned to
finishing the Afro-American revision. Next step is a typed
draft. Began drafting a "Letter to the Editor" on the
matter of the school levy. In the afternoon I worked at
Linda Hall on the
Scandinavian Expedition and I feel that there
is something that can be done with the architectural
illustrations as well as the general category. Hence,
after returning home, spent considerable time exploring Norway
literature at home.
TUESDAY, APRIL 15
French. Spent the remainder
of the morning working with Tom and especially Eric on various
long-range problems. Finished the session in the early
afternoon. Went over to the Nelson Gallery to check the
Art Index on Norwegian architecture, and then over to the UMKC
library. In the evening attended the
Friends of Art
purchase meeting—they got a
monumental
Calder stabile.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16
Prepared a letter to
C.B. Ball
relative to department business I could not avoid. After
some reading went to meet with
Don Beaver
and discussed the research and, in general, visited. A
very pleasant chap, and there is much merit to pursuing
discussion. Talked with
John
Dowgray about the Age of Napoleon academic festival idea.
John seems to be in that stage where a change of scene has
considerable appeal. I guess he really has been in heavy
traffic.
After lunch, rested and then out
into the heat and humidity to put in a hour of yard work.
Afterwards more reading. Finally got around to some
French. The evening was devoted to relaxation.
THURSDAY, APRIL 17
Desk chores. Then off to the
downtown library to see what there was in Norwegian art and
architecture books. Found two items of interest; only one
had the "scholarly text" I needed. I am discovering how
little significant English language material there is.
On the way to downtown, stopped at
the Department to give Eric the C.B. Ball letter.
Discovered that a candidate was to be in town, and I agreed to
meet informally with him at the Nelson Gallery. We visited
for an hour, I stayed out of the interview other than to note my
"philosophical" position.
Drafted a letter to KU/MU people
about pending Age of Napoleon exhibit and projected emporium.
Read more French, and on Norwegian art.
A state of discouragement, what
with strikes
and all, seems to pervade the public life of the city.
People are going to have to stand up to it—including
me.
FRIDAY,
APRIL 18
Off to
Linda Hall to continue the Scandinavian expedition. After
working through the lithos (310 of them), began reading the
narrative of the voyage (in two volumes). Managed to scan,
with understanding, about fifty-six pages before I ran out of
time. The French exercises have helped. After lunch,
went to the Gallery to check on the artists who were on the
Scandinavian expedition. Talked with Ross Taggart about
the Napoleonic exhibition prior to contacting the MU and KU
people. I think we can really develop this.
SATURDAY, APRIL 19
Typed
letters to KU and MU re: the Napoleon exhibit. Prepared
copy for the revision of the KCRCHE report. Took Paul to
Pakula re: his
allergy. [He] will need weekly shots. Began typing the
next draft of the Afro-American paper. Some yard work and
then French. In the evening visited at the Rivas.
Almost finished The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. The
picture was an
improvement.
SUNDAY,
APRIL 20
Church with
Paul. Some reading, a bit of French and a little Giedion,
etc. In general a day of no scholarly or physical
activity.
MONDAY,
APRIL 21
In bits and
pieces moved ahead on typescript draft of the Afro article.
Also a fairly long session with French. Read in Giedion.
Went out to Avila to turn in revision for the KCRCHE report and
discussed matters re: Institute. Worked on letter to
editor re: levy. Managed to keep busy without difficulty.
TUESDAY,
APRIL 22
Took Paul
to Thompson for adjustment of his braces. Read in AQ.
Then, after depositing Paul at school, went to Linda Hall and
put in a solid two hours of reading French re: the Scandinavian
voyage. After lunch, typed up letter to the editor re: the
school levy. Continued the typescript for the Afro paper
and read in Giedion.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23
All morning
at Linda Hall reading the French narrative re: Scandinavia.
Afternoon spent with Giedion.
THURSDAY, APRIL 24
All morning
at Linda Hall with the French Scandinavian expedition.
Mila and I went downtown to lunch, to see the science fair
(Matthew was a group-member participant) and then to see
Man of La Mancha. The La Mancha was
excellent theater—superb stagecraft. Some of the voices
were less than superb, although the acting was excellent.
A good show (but the Music Hall is a lousy theater for an
audience). In the evening, open house at the Nelson
school.
FRIDAY,
APRIL 25
Part of the
morning was spent with Eric about the long-range planning [for
the] physical plant. In the afternoon, continued with the
Scandinavian voyages and saw Part III of the Atlas (zoology).
This last [is] a strange portfolio—largely crustaceans.
The quality of hand coloring, where it was used, was
astonishingly fine.
The
letter to the editor re: the schools was published.
Received three phone calls, one plus, two minus.
In the
evening, over to visit with some people. Since she [sic]
was a painter, the conversation was rather subjective at times.
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
A day
devoted to ten thousand errands, which was all topped off by
going to a "get together" on the wrong day. Rained
prodigiously on top of everything.
SUNDAY,
APRIL 27
Paul and I
went to church, good sermon. Did some reading in the early
afternoon, mostly
AAUP
Bulletin. Life can be grim elsewhere. Then
in the late afternoon went out to the
Herb
Duncans to meet
Charles
Kahn, new Dean of KU School of Architecture. Did not
form an impression, but obviously a strong personality.
The evening was capped by the resignation of
De Gaulle.
MONDAY,
APRIL 28
Prepared a
letter to [Chancellor] Olson on the issues associated with
obscenity on a campus. Then prepared a commentary for Tom
re: his sabbatical leave request for next year. Prepared a
draft of an interim report on my sabbatical. After lunch,
began cleaning bookcases and moving books—a dusty job which also
consumes time. Did a couple of other chores—such as some
grass mowing. Some reading in Giedion.
TUESDAY,
APRIL 29
Read a bit
in Giedion while waiting for Eric who wished to consult re:
'70-'71 budget. That accomplished, had lunch and put
in 3½ hours at Linda Hall.
Another two sessions should complete the narrative. Upon
return home moved books in the two clean bookcases and made room
for two more shelves which I cut out of some surplus lumber.
They need to be painted. In the late afternoon I received
a collective call from
Westermann, Dale and Mitchell re: the budget for the M.A. in
Art History. So from memory I discussed figures and
projections. Dale wants a three-sentence updating which I
did just before supper and will take in, in the morning.
In the early evening I continued on the Afro-American paper.
Possibly I should be working at a heavier pace, but I find it
impractical to push simply for that sake. I wonder if
there is such a thing as scholarly sweat?
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30
First saw
Wes Dale to carry the message to him re: the M.A. in Art
History. He went to the Chancellor's office and I went
back to Scandinavia at Linda Hall. Had lunch at the Nelson
Gallery, and looked at some art magazines. Then back home
where I read in Giedion, cleaned books and adjusted the
placement, got a haircut, etc. In the evening typed on
Afro-American and did the last except for the footnotes.
Once that is done it is revision again.
THURSDAY, MAY 1
At Linda Hall, continuing with
Scandinavia. Joe Shipman brought out some other books, so
there is plenty left to do. After lunch, did chores about
the house, especially the basement. Discovered that Jean's
father has been terminated from his part-time job—now
what?
Completed
typing the draft of the Afro-American, and read in magazines.
While Jean was off to a play, I read Who's Afraid of Virginia
Woolf? While interesting, I did not find the play to
be my special kind (whatever that means). Ah well, on to
bigger and better things.
John Graham called re: the
Napoleonic project. I shall see him next Friday.
FRIDAY,
MAY 2
Morning
devoted to chores. In the afternoon went out to Excelsior
Springs to join with the KCRCHE windup [of the] Faculty
Institute. Was part of a panel in the evening.
SATURDAY, MAY 3
Next
morning chaired two sessions which led to productive
recommendations (which had to be written up) and at lunch
reported to assemblage. Got home in the later afternoon
and took it easy.
SUNDAY,
MAY 4
Attended
executive committee meeting of the Missouri Valley Chapter of
SAH. Lasted about three hours. Had a chance to visit
a bit with Ozzie Overby and discuss the Napoleon project.
After the SAH meeting, went out to Avila College to see their
senior exhibit. In the evening I worked on the summer
trip—itinerary, timing, etc.
MONDAY,
MAY 5
Wrote up
the KCRCHE report (hope that finishes it) and began reviewing
the Afro article. Many little changes and corrections.
In the afternoon, over to Linda Hall and worked on a
Greek
voyage of 1829? [sic] and more or less wound up
Scandinavia. In the evening continued on the Afro paper and
thought a bit more about the mechanics of the June trip.
It will be expensive.
TUESDAY,
MAY 6
Worked a
bit on the Afro paper and then Mila and I went downtown.
Ran some errands and met
Mellie for lunch. We discussed
the situation re: the Smiths and arrived at a
tentative and
temporary plan. Mellie will inform us of the reception.
Upon return, spent some time at Linda Hall. Finished
Scandinavia and am forging ahead on other voyages. After
return home, upholstered two dining room chairs and read in
Giedion.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7
In the
morning, finished revision of Afro paper. Went to Gallery
via Coldsnow (to pay a bill) and checked footnotes. Also
began on the architectural holdings project by preparing a
periodical list. Looked at the
Kung Hsien exhibit—very
interesting.
The
afternoon was mostly sleep and minor chores. In the
evening attended the Lehmann-Haupt lecture for the Friends of
the Library. He touched on my study project with
discussion of illustrations of microscopic images (among other
things). In effect he helped to justify what I have been
doing. Joe Shipman said that the Egyptian expedition
[book] had arrived, so it is the project for the morrow.
THURSDAY, MAY 8
Morning
spent at Linda Hall with the French Egyptian expedition.
Great fun. Ross Taggart came over and the discussions were
fruitful for me. I am beginning to see a pattern within
such publications and their relationship—one series with
another. The afternoon was errands. The older Smiths
problem is temporarily adjusted, and in the evening reread the
Afro paper and made a few corrections. Ready for typing.
FRIDAY,
MAY 9
Spent the
morning with Expedition de l'Égypte. It is
fascinating, and I am beginning to see the character toward
representation of the world-microcosm inherent in this.
Also it aggrandizes the nation to be able to transport Egypt
back to Paris. Small objects are collected and put in the
Louvre. Large objects and the land (maps) are carried back
in surrogate form, The world's fairs relate in part.
The Napoleonic magnitude of the l'Égypte is hard to
excel, but it sets a pattern for the subsequent series.
The role of the illustration then is critical. I suspect
this will occupy the remainder of the leave and then some.
In the
afternoon I met with John Graham of the history department and
we discussed the Napoleonic symposium for next fall. We
went over to the Nelson Gallery and met with Ross Taggart.
The exhibition, "The Taste of Napoleon," will go Oct. 2 to Nov.
16, which is great for me.
SATURDAY, MAY 10
Picked [up
the] budget form at Department for M.A. in Art History.
Spent the afternoon preparing same and drafting a commentary for
Dale.
SUNDAY,
MAY 11
Took both
boys,
at their request, to church. Typed up budget and
commentary for the Art History M.A. As far as I am
concerned, this is it. No more petty foggery [sic].
If they ask me to attend a session [insert: in Columbia]
I might go, but I doubt it. If it fails, I think I'll just
shove the chairmanship into their faces. I suspect it will
go through since it is a rational proposal, but are the people
who sit in judgment? Their competency is at stake if they
cannot act intelligently.
Well, enough
anger. Rest of the day was Mother's Day combined with
pre-birthday party for Mila Jean.
MONDAY,
MAY 12
Morning at
Linda Hall and l'Égypte. Identified the missing
volume (plates) and have begun a kind of index to the
organization of the whole thing since there is no easy way to
grapple with the thing.
The
afternoon was spent in part on the town with Mila and then at
home where I read a bit on Egypt. In the evening we went
to see
Lion in Winter. An interesting film which
required some English history in the post-film hour.
TUESDAY,
MAY 13
Spent the
morning getting things consolidated re: the summer trip.
Got out most reservation requests. In the afternoon worked
at Linda Hall. The comprehension of the Egypt project
grows, and it overlaps some later expeditions, or is so close
that a good tie can be seen. I can't help but wonder if
Napoleon had any plans for such a project to Russia? Must
also read up on Napoleonic art collecting, etc.
In the late
afternoon [and] early evening, I reread the Afro paper.
Stuart Levine is planning a special number of the
MASJ, so I
shall check with him by mail.
The
experience of helping Paul with his
math, after dinner, called
for some oiling of rusty gears.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14
Decided to
do background readings. Began with Taylor's
Taste of
Angels. From there went to the Nelson Gallery, read
additional material Ross had put out for me, talked with him,
and got a book on the founding of the
Louvre as a public museum.
After looking at the Chinese Textiles, went over to UMKC Library
and checked out a book on the history of France and Pevsner on
Academies again. The current issue seems to be a
case of the relation (in mind, attitude, etc.) of art and
science in France in the first half of the 19th Century as
represented in the travel books. The Morée
expedition was [insert: (check date)] coincidental with a
French expedition to aid Greece. The French sent a fleet
in October 1827 and the Morée
was I think 1828, '29. This needs checking. Perhaps
the most curious aspect is that the Bourbon restoration was a
factor of greater consequence than I had anticipated. The
support of science is interesting, and I shall have to ask
Beaver about history of French science (or Joe) [sic] in the 19th
Century.
Also wrote
MU and KU to bring them up to date on the symposium. Wrote
Stuart Levine about the Afro paper as a possibility for the
special issue.
THURSDAY, MAY 15
Morning
spent on doing some final typing of the Afro paper and reading
history of France. Afternoon at Linda Hall where I did
more work on the various French voyages, etc. It is a
hunch that a key may well be in the organization of
l'Institut de France, and I gathered some references and
began reading those. In the evening, did more reading on
French history. Considering the history, the scholarly
support is interesting.
Arago was a member of one
government. The daguerreotype story is somewhat more in
focus.
FRIDAY,
MAY 16
Day spent
typing some on the Afro paper and reading intensively on France,
establishment of the Louvre, etc.
SATURDAY, MAY 17
Continued
my various reading relative to French history, the Louvre, etc.
Also did some reading on Canada and our planned trip. Did
some more typing on the paper.
SUNDAY,
MAY 18
Church.
More typing. Went out to the Art Department picnic at the
DeLauriers. Talked privately with Lee Anne Miller.
There is no doubt that the faculty will have to make more
decisions next year.
MONDAY,
MAY 19
Felt a
little bilious, but did get some reading done on Academies.
In the afternoon, worked with a French encyclopedia reading
about the various Institutes. The big one, 1898, has much
of value.
TUESDAY,
MAY 20
Today was
the [second] school levy election. It
failed again.
What and how this will be [sic] is as yet uncertain. It is a
matter of a different type of confrontation politics. The
fact that suburbs are having trouble is indicative of the
deepness of the problems. On Wednesday there will be
meetings of the [School] Board and of the teachers. I
doubt that they will resolve matters by Thursday a.m.
As for
academies, read in Pevsner's Academies. Will have to
go back and make detailed reading notes on the last two
chapters.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21
Had a talk
with the boys, before they went to school, about the levy
defeat. Irony in that of the four wards that mustered the
two-thirds required, three were black. Probably it will go
to a $3.75, simple majority and a cut in services. But if
the teachers get stubborn and well they might, I doubt if there
will be much that can be done in September. At the moment,
I suspect that school will open late since the State
Legislature, even if it acted swiftly and intelligently which it
won't, cannot do this on their own. I tried to get across
to the boys that they were not in as vulnerable a position as
many others. For many reasons, they could even sit out a
year while those of us who can, try for reform. The
emotional impact of a "year out" would be worse on the parents
than the children, since we are less adaptable. I suspect
that the presumed scarcity of the suburban and private schools
is less than assured, since the waves will hit them in one form
or another. Sadly, it may be that this the only way to
wake people up to issues that are basic rather than superficial.
We all know that we need school reorganization as well as tax
reform. Well, the boys have been cautioned not to lose
their "cool," and to maintain an open mind (if not optimism).
As for me, I think I shall wait until I hear what the first
echelon says—the Board and the teachers. Until they speak
out and take a position (likely in opposition) the parent and
voter has little to offer. Fortunately, the boys are not
too vulnerable in that they are in the middle of programs rather
than attempting to start or to finish. The question that
rises in my mind constantly is the one about a possible school
movement. Not the
Pem Day or Barstow or parochial type,
but the substitute type regardless of the levy, etc. This
could create a brand new ball game.
So later we
hear that a lower levy is to be tried and cuts in the budget are
to be made. There was a confused
confrontation at the [UMKC]
Administration [insert: Building] concerning curriculum
confusion, and we watch pictures from the moon as transmitted
live by the
orbiting astronauts. In the midst of all of
this, I worked on reading and reading notes from Pevsner.
Things seem a wee bit disjointed, especially since I find myself
arguing with myself over what I should do on all sorts of
issues. Perhaps the times are all too much with us.
It is an intellectual deflation to match the currency inflation.
THURSDAY, MAY 22
Prepared a letter containing my
opinions re: the curriculum-change fiasco for Ed Westermann to
insert into the record as the occasion arises. While
delivering it, met Wes Dale who needed still another piece of
information relative to the M.A. in Art History, and so went
home to prepare that. Louis Cicotello came over to discuss
his salary-future, and I believe I was able to clarify his
situation insofar as I could (since the stimulus was from the
new appointment salary which I did not negotiate). We went
to lunch and he filled me in on more of the curriculum nonsense
since he attended the various meetings (public ones that is).
Heard from Stuart Levine, and he wants to see the Afro paper so
I worked it over one more time, had Jean proof it and I shall
duplicate it tomorrow and send it off to him. Also worked
on the budget for our trip. And what with watching and
listening to the moon travelers, I was rather drained by my
day's activities, so turned to one of Jean's English 1930s
mystery tales. This was about my speed.
FRIDAY, MAY 23
A day of chores. Over to the
bookstore for "supplies" and then over to the library to Xerox
the Afro paper and do some bibliographic work. Then over
to the post office to mail Stuart the paper. Then over to
the Gallery (on foot) where I conversed and had lunch.
Then back home. Took the opportunity to do recreational
reading, and then we went over to the Rivas in the evening for a
fairly large gathering. Got into academic (not scholarly)
discussions and I sense that one day soon I shall be back at the
hot routine.
SATURDAY, MAY 24
A day of chores. And
recreational reading. I did help Matthew make a paper cup
telephone as a school project.
SUNDAY, MAY 25
Church with the two boys.
Then in the afternoon and early evening a "swimming party" with
Department over at the "girls'
house." Once again academics finally came up. I
can see where I shall have to become a moderator (à la KCRCHE)
and not a participant as I resume chairmanship. Probably
that will suit my health needs better. But reasons and
implementations will need to be requested, as well as
maintenance of my own open mind on issues.
MONDAY, MAY 26
The 13th
anniversary. Jean and I went out to lunch, the
astronauts who circled the moon landed safely and it was a hot
day. I tidied up the desk, read a little, visited with
Jean's parents, and later printed up some pictures for my
mother. A quiet day.
TUESDAY, MAY 27
Visited very briefly in the
Administrative Building at the university. End-of-the-term
fatigue, coupled by all the tensions (ranging from budgets to
student activists) have had their effect. At Linda Hall I
got in some good licks, especially since the 1838 bibliographic
analysis [was] now available. Needed additional info, so
off to the Nelson Gallery for a brief check at the library, brief
conference with Ross Taggart, and borrowing of two books, [insert:
one of] which occupied me after I mowed the back yard.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 28
All (?) [sic] morning at
Linda Hall, deep in Egypt, and after lunch and shopping with
Jean, spent the afternoon and much of the evening with
Napoleon in Egypt.
My, my!
THURSDAY, MAY 29
A.M. at Linda Hall—continue
with Description de l'Égypte and the afternoon (after
errands) continued to read Neapoleonic until fairly late (9
p.m.). Sent Mother times and days for her planned visit to
us.
FRIDAY,
MAY 30
Finished
Napoleon in Egypt. Not the best book in the world, but
it is a difficult theme and objectivity and style are problems.
Spent the afternoon and early evening at
Blue Springs. A
real gully washer hit K.C. while we were gone and the area was
damp and littered.
SATURDAY. MAY 31
A day
devoted to odds and ends and a bit of planning for the trip.
The news from all sides is one of discontent. Everyone
saying his peace dealing with the wrongs, but not too much
clear-headed suggestions for making true corrections. Ah
me.
SUNDAY, JUNE 1
Took the
boys to church. Sprayed the evergreens for the first time,
read various general publications. In the evening finished
plotting the trip.
MONDAY, JUNE 2
Spent the morning at Linda Hall,
finished the Préface
to the Description. Took a two-hour lunch with John
Dowgray. We talked a little about the reasons for his
going to Tulsa, but mostly a general talk on higher education.
We both have learned as we grow older. At least we learn
in the process of our aging, and we both agreed that it was
on-the-job learning. In the evening I turned to light
reading.
TUESDAY, JUNE 3
Reading and errands. Nothing
profound since I feel the need to avoid profundity.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4
The morning was errand morning
again, with preparations for the trip. Bought Tom Benton's
book,
An American in Art.
After an early lunch we returned
home to discover that an
excavation
to repair the sewer was to take place in our back yard by the
big oak tree. After the matter had been fully (?) [sic]
explained to me, I gave the go-ahead. The job is being
done with neatness insofar as the digging is concerned. I
shall be away when we reach the critical stages.
Apparently a TV probe tells them where the sewer is broken, etc.
We have damage and I gather it won't be much to create disaster.
So down they go—by hand—to 15'.
I got most
of Benton's book done. Not really with enough substance
once we get past 1934. The book isn't all it seems to be.
THURSDAY, JUNE 5
More
chores. Had to call to get the Canada liability coverage
card from All-State. They mailed the card to
4310
Highland, and another is necessary. It will be
hand-delivered to me. The digging continues and we are
nearly ready to leave [for Canada].
James
Hazlett announced his resignation and
Nixon is heading to Midway Island. The State
Legislature seems to be in the depths of confusion. What a
curious, curious world.
FRIDAY,
JUNE 6
My Canada
Liability Card was hand-delivered. More errands, but
mostly just taking it easy.
SATURDAY, JUNE 7
Last day
chores, such as packing and the like. Should be ready once
breakfast and the paper are finished. Ah me, another
adventure.
*
FOR JUNE 8 THROUGH JUNE 29 SEE
1969
SUMMER STUDY TRIP
*
MONDAY,
JUNE 30
A quick
trip to collect mail at the post office and at the Department.
A visit to various stores for supplies. Fatigue and rest
dominate the very hot and humid day while errands are run to
catch up on our necessaries.
TUESDAY,
JULY 1
Third try
at levy and school bonds, and Mom Ehrlich arrives for a visit.
Spent a little time on errands and a quick visit to the Gallery.
We picked up Mother, a wee bit late, and she seems
much better
than I had expected. The
levy passed but bonds failed.
The post-mortem on the
legislature begins. I have no idea
of how we (University) fared, but I intuit we might expect a fee
increase to provide some additional revenue (for salary
increases? [sic]). No one has come out and said
that another session will be called, but the temper of the times
and people are short, and there may ensue a cooling-off period.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2
A day of
comparative ease, with some errands and some cleaning off of the
desk. The debris of inaction is still too much in
evidence.
THURSDAY, JULY 3
Spent a
little time at the Department and visited here and there.
Made some progress and getting back into a routine. Part
of Wednesday and Thursday consisted of long talks with Mother
relative to Sherry and the Mlinarich posture. It is a
thorough mess and I suspect too far along for any effective
reconciliation. Mother, caught and torn by still other
values, is not a happy person. All I can do is suggest
that she avoid taking public sides, although she seems to be
under pressure to do so and I don't know how it will turn out.
I suppose I too am a villain, but I confess that doesn't bother
me. I felt for some time I needed a thicker skin.
Perhaps it has grown. I could certainly use it in the
Fall.
FRIDAY,
JULY 4
With
Granddaddy Smith in Ohio (with the Nashes), Jean's mother joined
us and the main event was to see the film
Oliver! I
found it impossible to remember the
London production I saw
except for fragmentary images. Hence I could not do a job
of comparison.
Began
reading a Simenon novel in French, having finished the Ian
Fleming largely on the recent trip. A few more desk
chores. The weather has been wretched. Very, very
hot (mid to high 90s) and so very humid.
SATURDAY, JULY 5
A few errands, but a lazy day with
reading as the most active exercise (other than wee bit of
pruning out back). Continued with Simenon. Should
have gotten a Maigret story (which this is not).
SUNDAY, JULY 6
Some reading. Drafted some
letters—one to
Bea Roos—but
generally another easy day. The weather continues
unusually hot and humid.
MONDAY, JULY
7
Spent a couple of hours at Linda
Hall and began getting back into a routine. KCRCHE called
to ask about the report that goes to the academic deans, but I
noted that I had nothing to add. Ted Coe called, he and
Larry [Sickman] wish to see me about something, and I set up an
appointment for Tuesday. So, apparently my week's retreat—after
the trip—is over.
TUESDAY, JULY
8
Went to the Nelson Gallery to see
Sickman and Coe. I have agreed to give a lecture series
(ten sessions) to be entitled Painting in America. From
the Gallery, Jean and Mother and I went downtown and had lunch
with Mellie. Upon return, began sorting out the stuff from
the trip and making room for it in the library. At Linda
Hall I discovered that the air conditioning was on the blink.
WEDNESDAY, JULY
9
Read in Giedion and other items.
Simenon goes slowly because the story lacks something for me.
But I must continue.
While family at
a movie, I went to
the Gallery and saw the changes in hanging of the painting
galleries. Very much improved, and when finished it will
be a decided improvement. The
Kress works are integrated
into the total, which is an asset on both sides. There is
considerable more coherence now that more 19th Century stuff is
up. New vitrines are being installed, and all in all it is
a treat and the Gallery is a more exciting place.
Continued reading various things,
but I have not gotten too much done. Mother being here,
the wretched weather, another intense storm about 5 p.m. today,
and general lassitude have not helped. The Smiths joined
us for dinner, and we all watched the basement fill (not to
disaster level, but a
real mess) along with a
flood at 55th and
Holmes.
THURSDAY, JULY
10
Little chores today. Began
reading
Newhall's The
Latent Image. Took Mother to
the airport for her flight back to L.A. Some shopping, but
generally nothing accomplished other than to firm up my thinking
on the lectures for the Gallery.
FRIDAY, JULY
11
Took the boys for
haircuts, and
finished Newhall. Some of the information contradicts what
I knew in dissertation days, but does not invalidate the basic
argument. Some information on patents was new to me, and
the roles of Herschel and Arago were amplified. A fine
little work.
Continued to read in Simenon, and
I have made reasonable headway. The language and intent
are so different from my art reading that it has both salutary
and frustrating effect. A feature of the later afternoon
was my making a coq-au-vin, following a recipe exactly. It
was fairly successful, and a touch of modification the next time
around should add to the total experience. I think that I
shall try broiling instead of browning, and try for a thicker
sauce. I guess I can honestly say that cooking, rather
than something else, is my "hobby."
The
Dick Cavett Show, shown
here rather episodically, has a gift (at times) for literate and
intellectual dialogue. Wonder if it can last. I've
come to the conclusion that we are on a massive binge of
rejecting reasoned, cerebral objectivity as a manner for
achievement, and turning to a glorification of the intuitive,
subjective, sensual, emotional, etc. The very phrase—a
mind-blowing experience—used by
Kenneth Tynan on a TV show (not
Cavett but Mike Douglas) in conjunction with his Oh!
Calcutta, is a summary of what I think is happening.
Certainly
Op or Minimal is non-intellectual, despite the
extensive critical literature to support it, since there is no
"content." The advocates for self and experience of a
subjective nature are, I believe, letting themselves wide open
for direction by a cynical, aware leader. The danger in
all of this indulgence is not only an eventual puritanical
reaction, but the abdication to the charlatan (astrology) and
the willful manipulator. Regrettably I cannot see this
trend being reversed until it runs further along its course.
The cult curriculum, pro and con, tends to summarize the entire
affair.
SATURDAY, JULY
12
Took Paul for his shot and then
put in several hours of outside chores which were noticed since
the temperature and humidity were high. Read more in
Simenon and in the recent issues of the SAH Journal.
SUNDAY, JULY
13
Read back issues of the SAH
Journal (now up to date) and the AQ. The desk
is slowly clearing.
Saw the
Romeo and Juliet
film by Zeffirelli and it is visually a gem. The primitive
behavior and simplistic attitudes were all too evident.
And whatever happened to Friar Laurence?
The weather continues beastly hot
(though not a record, it is humid!).
MONDAY, JULY
14
The morning consisted of errands,
spraying evergreens, checking with the Department. The
afternoon was a good solid session at Linda Hall where I've
begun to assemble the various pieces collected over the months
into some semblance of order. I began an outline
summarizing the status of my information. Also, I began
trying to sort out the expeditions and voyages material.
TUESDAY, JULY
15
Some errands, and then over to the
Gallery. Turned in lecture topics for their use, and spent
some time in the library. Began reading
Rewald's
History of Impressionism. I must have looked at it
long ago, but certainly not in recent years. Like Giedion,
it is necessary to return periodically (some of the students
will). Went through the Gallery. One room on the
first floor needs re-hanging and then the "new look" will be in
order. A vast improvement which will facilitate teaching
as well as just plain visiting.
In the afternoon I continued my
work at Linda Hall. I am getting into the essentials of
the role of savants, etc. on these expeditions. Really,
Napoleon's contribution was the Institute in Cairo rather than
the basic concept. Why the French thought this way is the
key. Continued to read in Giedion
rather than Simenon since the entire afternoon was French texts.
On the eve of the attempt at
[launching] a
landing on the moon, the hysteria mounts on the part of the
hangers-on. I can hear it now, "I saw the rocket blast off
(not on TV—everyone can say that)
in person from 25 miles"—or whatever. The airwaves are
filled with so much pre-launch ecstasy (simulations have
destroyed even the sense of surprise) that it is hard to believe
that this can be sustained. And if anything prevents or
mars the expedition, the outrage of disappointment may be one of
the great let-downs with a period of national mourning which
will be below the dignity of the people involved. I
suspect that no alternative to vicarious and chauvinistic
achievement is acceptable. And while I too am caught by
the wonder of it, I am deeply disturbed that this is deemed more
important than so many other things. All it proves is that
given a physical (not a social) problem, and a goal that can
focus all involved, there is little that can escape the
engineering skills of mankind. Regrettably, we cannot
agree on social goals, nor marshal the same type of intellect (a
contradiction anyhow) to concentrate on solutions.
WEDNESDAY, JULY
16
Well, the astronauts are on their
way and happily they are a laconic group and with no crises
developing, the news [insert: media] was not
over-involved. No doubt Monday morning (the day of the
moon!) will be something—regardless.
Began
working on the report dealing with the
High School Course.
Later, read in Giedion. The weather continues hot and
humid but the boys are in
camp and are surviving (which helps
the old folks to survive).
THURSDAY, JULY
17
So while everyone concentrates on
the three Americans heading for the moon, I step back to the
mid-1780's and join a French expedition traveling in the Pacific
Ocean. Considering that they had a four-year voyage and
considerable danger (de la Pérouse
was lost with all his company), I wonder at our general lack of
awareness of what the past attempted while in awe of today's
achievements. This is not to downgrade the moon shot, but
rather to wonder if they are not indeed "safer" than Cook and
others who literally were "on their own." Reading the
narrative and noting the resources makes one a bit timid about
one's own daring.
We sit in
our home and see "real-time" TV transmission from our space
ship, we see the earth as a disc in the heavens, and then I turn
to the engravings and etchings made after the fact from drawings
and paintings executed by little-known artists whose job was to
record pictorially what could not be or was difficult to
describe. The juxtaposition of the two experiences is a
bit difficult to balance, yet they have relationships that are
more than imaginary. The role of art in the service of
science is I believe a satisfactory general title. One can
then see this by units. So one can have: ... [sic]
on the great voyages of discovery and exploration; ... [sic]
the herbals and florilegia (sp?) [sic] and so on.
The corollary theme, the influence of science and technology on
the arts, is really quite separate. But the two together
do represent the essence of my work at Linda Hall.
In the
afternoon there were errands and I continued to read in Giedion.
There are many other chores to do, both domestic and
intellectual. An improvement in the climate would
certainly facilitate this.
FRIDAY, JULY
18
Another morning at Linda Hall.
Pieces are beginning to form patterns, and I can see the overall
project much more clearly now. Probably for the first time
I can genuinely see a book in all this, and one which not only
draws on years of cumulative experience, but one which would be
a new one and not a rehash of others' work.
In the afternoon I took the car in
for some servicing and began reading Vol. 2 of my paper
Penguin
History of Science and Technology. Upon return, I
watch another TV space show. The weather remained cloudy,
and though humid it was cool (so to speak). I ache all
over and seem very stiff in most joints. Age catches up
even with all of the exercises. Got a way in the Penguin
History and I found some useful tidbits.
SATURDAY, JULY
19
A day of little chores—outside
excursions and around the house. Did some more reading,
History of Science, and watched another TV broadcast, this
from a 70 miles orbit of the moon. Tomorrow is the landing
attempt. Didn't do too much in final analysis, although I
kept busy. Once the moon excursion is over, life will
settle down somewhat.
Aches and pains seem to be my lot and I wonder as to the cause.
I'm so stiff in the a.m. I need to wait until I can do my
exercises.
SUNDAY, JULY
20
The morning was spent on phase one
of an organization of the
boys' room.
The afternoon, and on into the wee hours, was spent watching and
listening to the TV broadcasts. We heard the details
giving the successful landing, and then, much later (but at a
time early enough for the boys to see the early part) we saw TV
transmissions from the surface of the moon showing the beginning
of the "moon walk." I stayed up until the astronauts were
back inside and pressurizing their ship. It was all an
amazing demonstration of technological skills and single-minded
purposefulness. It is hard to believe that only sixteen
years ago, when I was at the
computer
lab, that computers filled rooms and were in their first
stages of examining the problem. Assuming continual
success, the excitement when return occurs should really turn
the world—especially U.S. TV—on.
Unless the drama will have exhausted everyone.
The
achievement was textbook, manual perfect to this moment.
At least here is an index of the value of planning and practice
which is hard to ignore. My own feelings were and are hard
to identify. Perhaps I was unable to identify with the
voyage, sitting at home. Some landings I've been in, long
ago, were more nervous. But then I was there then.
Today I was a bystander and I would be deceitful if I said I
tried to assume some of the "glory." Possibly it was the
rather calm environment at home. The boys were very
attentive but relatively knowledgeable, so they were more
matter-of-fact. They are so steeped in all this (what with
their own
rehearsals time and again) that I found myself reacting to
them rather than the more gabby news commentators.
So in
retrospect it was indeed a remarkable experience, and being a
passive participant, seeing the entire from my own home, is
part—a great part—of the experience. So little ago, TV was
for us a novelty. Now it watched, and we watched, a man
step out on the moon's surface. I wonder about the
implications.
MONDAY, JULY
21
The morning was spent in basement
and yard work. The afternoon was occupied with following
the leaving of the moon, rendezvous and docking. A few
catnaps helped catch up on sleep lost the night before.
Some more reading in History of Science. A tiring
day but many chores accomplished. A few out in space were
successful too.
TUESDAY, JULY
22
The morning was spent on errands
and excursions with an unexpected agreement to purchase a rug
(for the living room). A new "Oriental," it is an
India-made rug which to us was a real beauty (and we could
afford it). It was delivered at 2 p.m. and the excitement
in preparation was quite heady. We also had lunch at the
Gallery, and I noted progress in the various installations.
I suspect the big Rubens will go on the corridor end which will
permit some re-hanging in gallery X.
Upon return I found the '69-'70
appointment (at long last) and the [pay] increase was quite
respectable. There is now a lot of poor-mouthing for
public consumption, and while much of it is justified, it can go
too far and create morale problems. The fee increases were
announced as I had anticipated, and all of this is being
reported with considerable confusion since the pending
med school
is involved (along with everything else).
I did get in a little time at
Linda Hall. Barbara Mueller joined us for dinner.
Bob Graham
dropped by for a drink, and Barbara and Jean and I went to see
the Mo Rep
production of Our Town. Quite delightful and we
visited briefly with
Art
Ellison afterwards.
A full and stimulating day.
Also did more reading re: History of Science.
Almost finished with the Penguin book.
WEDNESDAY, JULY
23
Linda Hall in the morning.
Work around the house in the afternoon. Reading in the
afternoon and evening—Giedion and
Saturday Review.
THURSDAY, JULY
24
Prepared a calendar for my
19th-20th Century course for this coming fall term.
Excursions to the store and then watched the recovery of the
Apollo 11 crew via the TV. In some very real ways, the
true ordeal of the expedition now begins.
Spent some more time at Linda
Hall. I hope to wrap up the expedition aspect by the end
of August and to have a preliminary outline fleshed out.
Then I can begin with the note cards etc. I feel that what
I have been doing is really background reading and thinking,
although I do have an incredible accumulation of materials.
Incredible not for size but for variety (and accuracy).
But these are tidbits which did not have the structure required.
I think that is getting nearer. There is so much to do,
and my energy flags at the end of the day. I cannot say
that I am ill in any way, but I just poop out and the muscles
ache and the joints creak. I doubt that the medication has
much to do with it, but perhaps I better set up an appointment
soon for a checkup. Now that Ed Twin is no longer
practicing, I may slouch around a bit before I get oriented with
a new M.D. Howsoever, that is the pattern. I also
should have my eyes checked.
FRIDAY, JULY
25
The morning at Linda Hall.
Worked with the
first Cook voyage. I am near ready to
develop the general outline, and then a specific one for the
travel—Egypt, etc.—series.
These will enable me to start being systematic.
Did some
reading in
Pevsner's Academy. I had worked with the
19th and 20th Century parts, but now I moved earlier in time.
Some additional value in that it serves both the teaching and
the current project. Finished the History of Science
and Technology Vol. 2 by Forbes and Dijksterhuis.
Began on
Dampier's Shorter History of Science. It
is all bits and pieces. But now the time has come to make
it work more effectively.
SATURDAY, JULY
26
A variety of little activities
around the house coupled with readings in my field. Both
boys are under the weather a bit, and this has dampened
activities somewhat.
SUNDAY, JULY
27
Went out to the Department to
check on some U.S. architecture slides for Nancy DeLaurier.
Also picked up mail and discovered that Burton is disturbed
(again) re: salary. This via a note from Eric asking, for
Burton, for explanation re: my original recommendation.
After initial reaction, I settled down at home to write a
detailed and accurate account of the academic fiscal facts of
life. Everyone's education (including my own) must be
cumulative. I called Eric and he agreed to stop by in the
late afternoon and I would discuss the letter prior to sending
it (copy to Eric). As things turned out we had the
Bransbys to supper and a most pleasant three hours went by.
During the interval in the
afternoon, I read the new
American Art Journal, to which I had subscribed.
So another exciting day in the life of the sabbatical was
logged.
MONDAY, JULY
28
Desk chores in the a.m. and then a
visit to the doctor to have a checkup. Since Ed Twin is no
longer in practice, I selected the newest member of the group—Herbert
Waxman. We covered the usual, and discovered that the
blood pressure is up a bit. So we've increased the
Dyazide intake
and will have a checkup in late November.
I've continued to read in the
American Art Journal. It is a pretty decent first
issue. Finally finished the Simenon. I didn't dream
about the story, but I did improve my [French] vocabulary
(especially in dialogue).
I delivered the letter to Dunbar's
box (along with a carbon to Eric) and discovered a postcard from
Henry Hope. The Magic Theater article will be in the Fall
number of the Art Journal. Also learned that the
Afro piece is in Wyoming with the guest editor and I'll hear
word early next year.
TUESDAY, JULY
29
The morning at Linda Hall, after
taking Paul to the orthodontist and both boys out to Allendale.
I spent a little time at the Nelson Gallery in the afternoon and
upon return home did some more reading. Also began Agatha
Christie (in French). Yesterday was a "pooped" day and my
productivity declined in the later portion of the day. At
times one feels as if the gears are not meshing. Ah well.
WEDNESDAY, JULY
30
Morning at the desk, doing
intellectual chores. Afternoon at Linda Hall.
Evening made contact with the "missing" professor at Columbia
campus.
Bonner Mitchell was the man whose letter I lost, and my plea
for help hit the covert target and now all is well.
Continue with Agatha in French.
THURSDAY, JULY
31
Morning at Linda Hall.
Finished with Cook and next week I can take on the
Astrolabe—that
should hold the voyages for a while. In the afternoon I
did some reading but little more than that.
FRIDAY,
AUGUST 1
Some chores and some reading.
Major work on the
picture books—at
long last. Ours is now up to date insofar as printed
pictures etc. Now for the boys's books—very out of date by
now.
SATURDAY,
AUGUST 2
Working at the desk and then was
horrified to learn that I had the wrong time (too late) for an
appointment to have eyes checked. An unnerving experience.
In the evening we went to a party given by Barbara Mueller and
we stopped by to see the new faculty member,
Stephen Gosnell,
first. Then we all went on together.
Did more work on the picture
books. Paul's is nearly up to date.
SUNDAY,
AUGUST 3
Various reading, some serious, and
assorted outside chores. Somehow the day was indeed slow
insofar as my productivity. A late (for me) night shoots
the following day.
MONDAY,
AUGUST 4
The morning was productive re:
errands and such activities. A portion of the afternoon
was devoted to reading French—Agatha
Christie!
TUESDAY,
AUGUST 5
At the Gallery where I looked,
read and visited.
WEDNESDAY,
AUGUST 6
At Linda Hall in the morning.
General reading—Saturday Review,
American Art Journal, Scientific American, etc. in parts of
the rest of the day. My energy level falls a bit fast after
12 or 1 in the afternoon. Phooey.
THURSDAY,
AUGUST 7
The morning was fairly productive,
especially with Pevsner—finished
making notes. All this at home. But I felt rather
wretched in the afternoon and evening with the left elbow and
shoulder giving me fits. It was decidedly uncomfortable.
Whether it is the weather, or metabolism, or whatever, I felt
bedraggled. It is hardly conducive to productivity.
FRIDAY,
AUGUST 8
Felt bilious, yet was not.
Kept rather a quiet routine with reading of things as a major
activity. Art Journal, American Art Journal
finished—that was about the only
intellectual activity.
SATURDAY,
AUGUST 9
I feel better today, but
maintained a restrained schedule. Had my eyes checked and
I will need new glasses (from 0.75 to 1.50). Perhaps my
span of concentration will improve once I have the new lenses.
SUNDAY,
AUGUST 10
Various chores, readings, simple
desk activities and the like.
MONDAY,
AUGUST 11
Took in prescription for the new
glasses—ran other errands,
Reading in the afternoon (with a nap) and
Jane and David Dodds,
with their daughter
Elizabeth, came into town. Had dinner
with us and we visited in the evening.
TUESDAY,
AUGUST 12
The Dodds were with us in the
morning, and I took them to the airport. After lunch I
napped; still feel a bit peculiar, but I really doubt that is
could be the increase in the Dyazide. But if it continues
I shall speak with the doctor. Later, went to the
University Library to check on some titles, and then picked up a
couple of others which will assist in both my 19th-20th Century
course and the pending lecture series at the Gallery. Did
some reading on
Benjamin West and James Tissot.
I am now so blasted conscious of
the need for new glasses, my efficiency is reduced. Well,
Thursday a.m. I can get them.
WEDNESDAY,
AUGUST 13
Typed up letter to
Hair (Acting
Superintendent of K.C. Schools). Kept it ambiguous as to
"role," but tried to urge initiation of contact with the
educated-sincere minority.
Went to the Nelson Gallery where I
read McCoubrey's American Tradition in Painting.
Then checked out
Sellers' two volumes on Charles Willson Peale.
Had lunch at the Gallery, visited a bit. Once home I began
reading the Peale book. Got through half of the first
volume.
THURSDAY,
AUGUST 14
Picked up the new lenses for my
glasses. After adjusting to the more limited depth of
field of focus, it is gratifying to have sharp vision again.
The difference became more striking as the day progressed.
Jean and I went to see
Goodbye,
Columbus. A well-made film, it is also a curiously
moral one. I can see, however, why Roth's status toward "Jewishness"
is considered ambiguous. But then I don't know how much of
the film was Roth. Jack Klugman was very good, but so were
all in the cast.
The remainder of the day (and
night) was devoted to a solid effort on the C.W. Peale books.
Finished the day (night) well into Volume 2.
Peale is very
much a part of all the Linda Hall efforts, not only in the role
of the museum, but also in the function and status of the
artist. The tie-ins are not just in my mind. He was
a correspondent of
Banks, entertained von Humboldt and received
gifts from Saint Hilaire of Egyptian specimens. I can see
a pretty little piece called "Peale's Museum Revisited," with
stress on the cultural contextual aspect. For me it is all
rather exciting.
And we have only about two weeks
left before I return to the office. I will have to take a
day off to outline the sabbatical's results, for the next phase
has to be translating and adding on note cards for proper later
use.
FRIDAY,
AUGUST 15
Continued work with the Sellers
book on C.W. Peale. Tremendous rains today, and we had to
excursion out to Allendale for the awards day. Both of the
boys received a
recognition. We returned with a
Gerbil,
and later
Betty Ganser [insert: now in Denver] came by
for a visit. A long, damp day.
SATURDAY,
AUGUST 16
Getting Harry the gerbil settled
proved to be quite a morning activity. Interesting
creatures.
Afternoon spent reading trivia,
and in the evening we had a visit with the Rivas and
Kris.
Ray Riva brought home the soon [sic] return to the
office.
SUNDAY,
AUGUST 17
A lazy day with a bit of catching
up on rest since I lost much on both Friday and Saturday.
Little of consequence other than nature observation—that
is gerbil watching.
Fascinating.
MONDAY,
AUGUST 18
Went out to the Department in the
morning to get the mail. Lee Anne was back from France
(she also had
her parents in town) and we visited briefly in the
Department. When Eric came in we discussed a number of
issues, particularly space matters. Some decisions were
made and I agreed to come in on Tuesday to help develop the
Spring '70 schedule. In the afternoon I went to Linda Hall
and studied the plates in the Astrolabe voyage. Later in
the afternoon, and in the evening, read more on C.W. Peale.
TUESDAY,
AUGUST 19
Reading of C.W. Peale in morning.
Lunch with Eric at WRNG and then adjourned to Department where I
worked out a spring schedule while Eric labored at other things.
It is very clear that things are ripe for many chores, decisions
etc. Not because Eric hasn't worked hard, he has, but
because there is so much to do and more comes in view
constantly. The taste of the office routine was a curious
experience after the retreat of "scholarship."
WEDNESDAY,
AUGUST 20
Morning at UMKC Library, and at
the desk, getting ready for the Art Historiography. Lunch
with Jean and general reading in the afternoon and part of the
evening. Some chores interludes. An item in the
Saturday Review gave me the thought to check into
Jefferson's charge to Lewis & Clark and into the expedition, so
as to compare with the other voyages.
THURSDAY,
AUGUST 21
Continued work at UMKC Library in
preparation for the Historiography seminar. Had a haircut.
In the afternoon the Dodds returned to town, visited with us for
a couple-three hours. Just before, we went out to the
pet
shop where we learned a few more useful things about gerbils.
In the evening I read Roth's Goodbye, Columbus.
FRIDAY,
AUGUST 22
Errands. Also finished the
C.W. Peale books. Worked on the Art Historiography
seminar. Talked with Tom Thomas by phone and reached a
preliminary solution for the Art Education in the spring when
Tom is on sabbatical.
SATURDAY,
AUGUST 23
Some more work on the
Historiography seminar. Some errands and house chores.
Worked on the Benjamin West book. Other general reading.
Some thoughts on summary of the sabbatical.
SUNDAY,
AUGUST 24
A rather good day for desk
accomplishments. Prepared materials for return to the
office, and worked at considerable length on C.W. Peale notes,
notes for the [insert: sabbatical] project, and read in
Benjamin West. Gave thoughts to the qualifying exam for
the M.A. It seems clear to me that the concept of
candidacy vs. grad work and the implications are not understood
as the basic principle. Hence a proposal, which will
solicit information as well as present my views, is needed for
circulation to the faculty.
As for the sabbatical project, I
have not yet settled on either a single thesis or basic
premises. It is an aspect of cultural history in which art
and science have not only a utilitarian [struck through:
element] relationship, but this relationship is a manifestation
of the period. Possibly Art in the Service of Science:
A Cultural History of Scientific Illustration.
MONDAY,
AUGUST 25
Did some work at UMKC Library.
I estimate 6,000-7,000 individually catalogued items [insert:
directly] relevant to art, plus the periodicals. Then over
to Linda Hall where I talked with Joe Shipman and thanked him.
Told him I would be "away" for a month, and then would try to
return on a once-a-week basis. From there, I came home and
took the family to the U.S. and Missouri government buildings
downtown. Boys bought some "space" materials at the U.S.
bookstore. Afternoon was largely desk work, to some good
profit.
TUESDAY,
AUGUST 26
Went over to the Department.
Did not sit at my desk, but took care of a few chores, made some
recommendations after a conference with Eric. Got over to
the Nelson Gallery for lunch and a quick walk-through of
[building?/painting?]. At home did desk work and got a
number of things straightened out. Also managed a visit to
the dentist ensemble.
WEDNESDAY,
AUGUST 27
Desk work, some library work while
boys got their haircuts. I got two mighty tomes for home
reading. Second trip to dentist for Jean and me.
Weather hotting up a bit.
THURSDAY,
AUGUST 28
Small chores and errands of one
sort and another. Some desk work and some reading.
Major activities were culinary. It sounds as if very
little of consequence is being done, but not really so.
Ross Taggart called in the later afternoon, seeking suggestions
for a speaker re: Napoleon show to fill a special—hopefully
architectural planning—slot, and that set me into a frenzy of a
search for possibilities that kept me deep in effort (with a
minimum of results) until 10 p.m.
FRIDAY,
AUGUST 29
Took car in for 12,000 [mile]
check. From there walked to bus [stop] and took bus to
near University. At UMKC Library did further search for
Ross. Went, on foot, to Gallery. Had an excellent
visit with Ross re: the show, gave him my suggested names.
Saw some fascinating objects gathered for the exhibition.
Read draft of essay for the catalog and saw the catalog text.
Had lunch with Ross and continued talk on show, its theme, the
period, etc. After lunch talked briefly with Larry Sickman
about some matters and then walked back home. After a
brief rest, over to the bus and back to pick up the car.
Returned home where I read until dinner. After dinner,
watched K.C. play St. Louis in football.
We won!
SATURDAY,
AUGUST 30
The morning consisted of errands
and chores. The afternoon was a combination of being lazy,
recreational reading and some serious reading and thinking of
the art-science theme. This occupied portions of the
evening as well.
SUNDAY,
AUGUST 31
The morning was spent at the desk
doing dozens of little activities. Working through the
accumulation of projects, sorting, disposing and preparing for
the coming weeks at the university. After some
excursioning in the afternoon to give the family a break, I
turned to serious reading again. So ended the month and
the sabbatical.
*
POSTSCRIPT
MONDAY,
SEPTEMBER 1
Today is Labor Day and so a
holiday. By coincidence it is also the first day "back on
the job." We have invited the Bransbys over to dinner,
both as a social evening and to acknowledge his acting as
chairman during the sabbatical. We have a bottle of
top-notch gin—most excellent for
martinis—to be the symbol of appreciation.
So what was
accomplished? What did I learn?
Intangible,
but the most valuable to the University (and to me as an
individual) is the chance to retreat and think things out.
Here I do not mean solutions to practical problems, but to
examine self and my relationship to a host of professional
issues. I think I shall return a more tempered and
temperate individual. I suspect the knowledge that I am
different (and I think I am) will penetrate my colleagues and
superiors but slowly. But that too is good—the
changes are of degree rather than of kind.
Then there
was the Canadian trip. For the time and the money, a good
value. Thinking only of my part (the family benefited of
course) I think I gained considerable insight into the arts
elsewhere, and my awareness of the role of the museum (of
several kinds) has increased. But as so often happened
before, a first-hand view of other places makes one's own
situation clearer. As before, I see that Kansas City with
all of its problems is not too badly off when compared to other
places. Parochialism of almost any kind is not a good
thing.
And then I
did get one article of some substance (the Magic Theater)
accepted and to be published this fall—Art
Journal. A second is under consideration (the
Afro-American Art piece) and I intuit it will be accepted,
although I cannot tell how the editor will cast his special
issue. At any rate it is a completed paper. Others
should have been written, but the research project was more
demanding of intellectual effort than I anticipated. Oh, I
could have ground away at all levels, but the benefits of the
sabbatical would have been diluted.
I suppose
the most remarkable thing about the research project is that I
went into it out of long-time curiosity, and hopeful that maybe
an exhibit of fine printed illustrations would be a possible
result. Now I see, for the first time seriously, a book.
I like for the present the title: The Didactic Image.
A subtitle would be, tentatively, A Cultural History of
Illustration for Science. Pompous?
I started
out to look at pictures that art historians rarely or never look
at as art, and which science historians see only for content in
a context. I have ended by a completely new (to me) idea
of what the arts and artists meant prior to the age of
photomechanical illustration. And since this is also prior
to "mature" industrialization, we have to see science and
technology in a different light as well. What has
happened, and the details are complex, is an enlarged and I
believe more accurate understanding of the uses of the arts.
The two cultures concept of
C.P. Snow reflects the current self-images and practices. The 18th Century was another matter
altogether.
The changes
in the biological sciences, toward biochemistry in opposition to
the taxonomic, have muddled the earlier descriptive role.
The use [of]—even
dependence on—art to further the descriptive sciences is an
element that was important but is no longer so. Ecology
seems to be statistical and computerized. I suppose the
key is instrumentation. As instrumentation grows in the
sciences, the visual descriptive function of art decreases.
So we not
only have a use of art by science, but science influencing the
arts. Touched on in the doctorial dissertation, the
patterns seem clearer and of greater significance. Yes, I
think there is a book here, one which is both an historical
account and theoretical in content. I somehow see it as
beginning with a theoretical position, and followed by the
historical. While this seems inverted, the historical is
less a matter of presenting theories that are then synthesized,
as a demonstration of the implication inherent in a view toward
certain intellectual activities of mankind.
I daresay
this is a ten-year project (or longer) to gather together and
make sense out of the subject. At the moment I see it as
being done on two levels. First there must be the
continuous gathering of data, illustrations, etc. Second,
there is the taking of discrete portions or periods and writing
them up, not as chapters but as separate themes which will
sharpen my thinking till I am ready to take off a year? [sic]
and write.
Well, it is
an ambitious idea and a rather positive note on which to end.
But this is not contrived to look good only to the reader of
these pages; rather it represents the genuine feelings that I
have as a result of what is now, obviously, a most beneficial
sabbatical leave.
