Gerald Geerlings was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1897. After working as a designer and architect for several firms in New York he opened his own architectural practice in 1926. He also wrote and illustrated numerous articles on domestic architecture for magazines such as House Beautiful. As an artist, he is best known for his lithographs and intaglio prints of the 1920s and 1930s.
The International Fine Print Dealers Association describes his work this way:
Geerlings' works are characterized by the following key characteristics: extensive detail that concedes to the complete design, a rich variety of tonal gradations and surface texture, and a spatial expressiveness. Invariably, all of the formal elements of a work are exquisitely balanced and coalesce through the mysterious quality of light that illuminates the scene.
The Rare Books Room is fortunate to have 24 of his art prints including these examples:
If you are interested in viewing this set, call the Art, Music and Recreation Department at 414-286-3071 to arrange a visit.
Patricia DeFrain, Rare Books Librarian