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Alden Mason Has Died
2
I had the great pleasure to meet Alden several times over the last few years. Even though his health was obviously failing, he had a sparkle to him. He loved to tell stories and seemed very happy to have an audience, especially of attractive women. It's a sad day for both NW art and history. RIP Alden.
3
Horribly sad. He was my favorite NW artist hands down. Golden Burpee has been the background on my iPhone for a long, long time. I will hold tight to the works he left us with. I wish I had one to call my own.
5
I didn't know Alden was a local artist. I regularly have the occasion to look at one of his paintings from 1962 while waiting for a slow ass elevator. While looking at it I think what the heck was going on inside that guys head to paint that in '62?
6
Lovely man. He talked with me for half an hour before I knew his name, and he was generous, friendly and sincere. When we finally exchanged names, it was all I could do not to appear star-struck.
I have his christmas cards set out before me today. Guess I should frame them. He had a good life.
I have his christmas cards set out before me today. Guess I should frame them. He had a good life.
7
When I first moved here in the late '80s, I happened to see a Mason retrospective at the Henry. I had never heard of him but I became an instant fan. What a wonderful painter.
9
He really was an incredible artist - and his work can never be forgotten. I had three of his largest and best paintings ever - Foster White sold two - I think the best of his Burpee Garden paintings done in 1974 and 1975 which sold within a week of their receiving them from us; and the 3rd which is currently for sale Tambopata Tango; 1981; acrylic on canvas; 80" x 80" - a fabulous piece, but two large for my current space. I will miss it and Alden - he was the greatest - in love and peace, Mike.
10
I came across Alden's art at SAM when visiting from Vancouver, Canada in 2011. As his first name was my last, and loving his art, I had to find out about him. The quest led me to the Seatlle library, Foster White Gallery staff by email, ending up at his 92nd birthday party put on by the Gallery. It was an honour to meet such an engaging sweet man. Before he left the party that day, he waved me over to his wheelchair and kissed the back of my hand. The only man to ever do so. And I'd never let another kiss that right hand!!
When I spoke to him, I mentioned seeing a few of his Burpee series and my feeling was I wanted to walk into the painting. He told me that was "the best compliment I've ever had." I like to think that was true!
Bless him for all the joys he brought to so many with his sparkling persona and his unique art.
When I spoke to him, I mentioned seeing a few of his Burpee series and my feeling was I wanted to walk into the painting. He told me that was "the best compliment I've ever had." I like to think that was true!
Bless him for all the joys he brought to so many with his sparkling persona and his unique art.
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