1. Search and Browse Collections
  2. Robert Sperry papers, 1951-2002
  3. Contents and Arrangement

Robert Sperry papers, 1951-2002

Creator

Occupation

Make a Request

  • To request an appointment to view materials, make your selections using the checkboxes and click the "Reading Room" button. Please note, you will receive the full box.
  • To request reproductions, make your selections using the checkboxes and click the "Reproduction" button.
Select containers from the following list if you want to request them for reading room use or reproduction

Series 1: Biographical Files, 1954-circa 2000, undated
(Box 1; 0.3 linear feet)

This series includes artist statements, curriculum vitae and resumes, as well as a complete biography listing all of Sperry's professional achievements. It also contains files on awards Robert Sperry received which typically include correspondence, brochures, and other related materials concerning the awards. There are two files on interviews, including a transcript for an interview conducted by the Archives of American Art for the Northwest Oral History Project and two audio cassettes of a radio interview. Also found are teaching evaluations, Patti Warashina's resume, and other miscellaneous materials. The series is arranged alphabetically by type of material, with miscellaneous materials at the end.
Description Container Select
Artist Statements, undated
1
1
Award, Bellevue Film Festival, 1967
1
2
Award, International Academy of Ceramics Membership, 1983-1986, undated
1
3
Award, National Endowment for the Arts Visual Artists Fellowship Grant, 1984-1988
1
4
Award, American Crafts Council Honorary Fellow, 1987
1
5
Biography, circa 2000
1
6
Curriculum Vitae and Bibliography, 1956-1989
1
7
Interview, Audio Cassette, "Private Talks with Public Artists,", 1988
1
8
Interview, Transcript, Archives of American Art, 1983-1984
1
9
Memorial Announcement, 1998
1
10
Patti Warashina Short Resume, circa 1998
1
11
Selected Resumes, 1954, 1991-1999
1
12
Teaching Evaluations, 1957-1961
1
13
"Who's Who in American Art,", undated
1
14
Miscellaneous, 1954-1988, undated
1
15
Back to Top

Series 2: Correspondence Files, 1951-2000, undated
(Boxes 1-2; 0.9 linear feet)

This series contains both personal and professional correspondence. However, some correspondence related to Robert Sperry's professional career is also located within series 3, 4, and 5.
The Correspondence Files are organized into two subseries:
  • 2.1: General Correspondence, 1951-2000, undated
  • 2.2: Named Files, 1955-1999, undated

2.1

General Correspondence, 1951-2000, undated
General Correspondence primarily consists of letters from family, friends, artists, and colleagues, including numerous cards and postcards. Also within are professional correspondence from galleries, schools, art associations, and art publications. An item of note is a letter to Sperry from artist Morris Graves, written June 14, 1967. Files are arranged chronologically by year.
Description Container
General Correspondence, 1951-2000, undated
1
16-37

2.2

Named Files, 1955-1999, undated
Named Files are arranged alphabetically by the correspondent's name and contain letters, cards and postcards to Sperry. Included are files on individuals, primarily family, friends, and colleagues, with whom Sperry exchanged a significant amount of correspondence over a long period of time. Also found are files on museums, schools, art organizations, and publications. Most notable are several handmade birthday and anniversary cards given to Sperry by his wife, Patti Warashina.
Description Container
A. Kaup & Associates, 1983-1985
1
38
Alfred Auerbach Associates, 1962, undated
1
39
American Craft Council, 1959-1975, 1993-1997
1
40
Art in Form, 1982-1983
1
41
Art Resource Technology, 1986, 1992
1
42
Baross Films, 1979, undated
1
43
Bauer, Fred, 1964, 1991, undated
1
44
Bauer, Gretchen, 1983, 1987, undated
1
45
Bauer, Lisa, 1984-1990
1
46
Beigler, Myron (Mike) and Dolly, 1987, undated
2
1
Biskeborn, Susan, 1990
2
2
Caruso, Nino, 1965-1966, 1975-1992, 1996
2
3
Ceramics: Art and Perception, 1991, undated
2
4
Ceramics Monthly, 1976-1986
2
5
Cleveland Museum of Art, 1965-1966
2
6
Chasanoff, Allan, 1980-1982
2
7
Dobson, Dwight and Nancy, 1986-1996
2
8
Earnest, Aileen Ryan, 1986-1987
2
9
Efron, Jean, 1988-1993, undated
2
10
Everson Museum of Art, 1962-1965, 1988
2
11
Fisher, Robert, 1992-1993, undated
2
12
Gibson, Marge and Bob, 1984, 1993, undated
2
13
Griffith, Malcolm, 1986-1989, 1998, undated
2
14
Guggenheim, Shelly and Judy Mannes, 1985-1989, undated
2
15
Harlow, Margaret, 1993, 1995
2
16
Harrington, LaMar, 1979-1984, 1994, 1996
2
17
Harry N. Abrams, Inc., 1979, 1989
2
18
Jacobs, Daniel, 1981-1982, 1987-1991
2
19
Kehl, Richey, 1973, 1998, undated
2
20
Kleinsmith, Gene, 1984-1987
2
21
Kolva, Jim, and Pat Sullivan, 1994
2
22
Kurath, Martha S. (Jody), 1981, 1987-1997, undated
2
23
Larsen, Jack, 1982, 1990-1993, undated
2
24
Mahler Fine Arts Consulting, Inc., 1999
2
25
Mannheimer, Joan, 1981-1987
2
26
Marquis, Pamela, 1986-1987
2
27
Metapsychology, 1987
2
28
McDowell, Scott, 1977, undated
2
29
Museum of Contemporary Crafts, 1962, 1964-1966, undated
2
30
Nelson, Glenn C., 1964, 1981-1982
2
31
Newton, Dorothy (Dot), 1984-1997, undated
2
32
Nordness, Lee, 1977, 1988-1994
2
33
Oregon Ceramic Studio, 1961-1965
2
34
Peterson, Susan, 1980-1997
2
35
Poole, Kristin M., 1991
2
36
PONCHO, 1991
2
37
Publicity Letters, 1985
2
38
Recommendation Letters for Students, 1973-1994, undated
2
39-40
Schwartz, Judith, 1981-1985, 1989
2
41
Seattle Art Museum, 1974-1991, 1996
2
42
Seattle Arts Commission, 1981-1986
2
43
Sinker, John, Jr., 1993, undated
2
44
Smith, Paul J., 1987, 1990, undated
2
45
Smithsonian Institution, 1962-1964, undated
2
46
Sperry, Kathy and Chris Walton, 1990-1993, undated
2
47
Sperry, Van and Family, 1986, 1990, 1996, undated
2
48
Staggs, Virginia (Jinks), 1984, 1990-1996, undated
2
49
St. Martin's College, Olympia, Washington, 1960-1962
2
50
University of British Columbia, 1962-1964
2
51
University of Washington, 1955-1989
2
52
U.S. Department of State, 1965-1966
2
53
Warashina, Patti, 1976-1997, undated
2
54-55
Wilson, Ian and Bette, 1981-1997, undated
2
56
Wing Luke Memorial Museum, 1975-1979
2
57
Zakin, Richard, 1982-1993, undated
2
58
Back to Top

Series 3: Exhibition Files, 1963-1999, undated
(Boxes 2-3; 1.2 linear feet)

Exhibition Files contain material on the group and solo exhibitions in which Robert Sperry participated. Files typically include correspondence, expense lists and receipts, notes, and printed materials, including brochures, announcements, and press clippings. Most notable is the material on Robert Sperry: A Retrospective, held in 1985 at the Bellevue Art Museum. Files are arranged chronologically by year of exhibition.
Description Container Select
The Village Potters of Onda (1964-1966), 1963-1966, 1986
2
59
American Studio Pottery (1966), 1966-1967
2
60
Burien Art Festival (1966), 1966
2
61
"Form and Quality" (1966, 1967), 1965-1967
2
62
Distinguished Contemporary Potters Invitational Show (1975), 1975
2
63
Functional Ceramics (1977), 1977
2
64
Robert Sperry at Nagatani Gallery, 1977
2
65
Function: Non-Function (1979), 1979
2
66
Robert Sperry at Erica Williams/Anne Johnson Gallery (1979-1980), 1979, undated
2
67
Crafts Northwest Circa 1980, 1979-1980
2
68
Contemporary Ceramics: Response to Wedgewood (1980), 1980
2
69
American Crats (1980), 1979-1980
2
70
Ceramic Sculpture Invitational at Whatcom Museum of History & Art (1980), 1980
2
71
The Washington Year: A Contemporary View (1981), 1980-1981
2
72
Wichita Art Association Decorative Arts Retrospective (1981), 1980-1981
2
73
"Ceramic Traditions" (1981-1983), 1981-1983
2
74
Robert Sperry at Erica Williams/Anne Johnson Gallery (1981), 1981-1982
2
75
"American Clay II" (1982), 1982
2
76
Pacific Currents/Ceramics 1982, 1982
2
77
Variations in Clay (1982), 1982
2
78
Robert Sperry at Gordon Woodside/John Braseth Galleries (1983), 1983
2
79
Potter's Choice (1983), 1982-1983
2
80
"Regional Crafts: A Contemporary Perspective" (1983-1984), 1983
2
81
Clay: 1984, 1983-1984
2
82
Platters and Related Forms (1984), 1984
2
83
Ceramic Sculpture Invitational (1984), 1984, undated
2
84
Skeet Shoot (1984), 1984
2
85
Potters & Prints (1984-1985), 1984-1985
2
86
Robert Sperry: A Retrospective (1985-1986), 1983-1986
2
87-89
10/40 Anniversary Celebration at the Bellevue Art Museum (1986), 1985-1986
2
90
Pacific Northwest Art Expo (1986), 1986
2
91
Northwest Impressions: Works on Paper (1986), 1986
2
92
West Coast Clay (1986), 1986
2
93
Outside Japan (1986), 1986-1987
2
94
Drawn to the Surface: Artists in Clay and Glass (1987), 1987
2
95
"Now & Then" (1987), 1987
2
96
Robert Sperry: Ceramics, Paperworks, Drawings (1987), 1986-1987
2
97
FOCUS: Seattle (1987), 1986-1987
3
1
"Ceramics in Architecture: Drawings, Sketches, and Models" (1987), 1986-1987
3
2
Canton Art Institute Ceramic Invitational (1987), 1985-1987
3
3
Northwest Clay (1987), 1987-1988
3
4
Marylhurst College, 1987-1988
3
5
Craft Today: Poetry of the Physical (1987-1988), 1985-1988
3
6
Clay Revisions: Plate, Cup, Vase (1987-1989), 1986-1989
3
7-8
"A Fine Place to Work: The Legacy of the Archie Bray Foundation" (1988), 1988
3
9
Black and White (1988), 1988
3
10
Architectural Art: Affirming the Design Relationship (1988), 1987-1988
3
11
Robert Sperry at Whatcom Museum of History & Art (1988), 1987-1989
3
12
"School of Art: Students and Teachers at the University of Washington, 1975-1988" (1988), 1988
3
13
Contemporary Survey: A Visible Presence in the Northwest (1988), 1987-1988
3
14
Northwest Ceramics, Today (1988-1989), 1986-1989
3
15
Washington Crafts: Then & Now (1989), 1988-1989
3
16
Northwest Designer Craftsmen, 1989
3
17
"Mirror Images: Reflections in Clay" (1989), 1989
3
18
Surface and Form (1989), 1989
3
19
The Spectacle of Chaos (1989), 1989
3
20
Bumbershoot: Decade of Abstraction 1979-1989, 1989
3
21
Media Gallery (1989), 1988-1989
3
22
Clay AZ Art XV (1989), 1988-1989
3
23
Clay Now (1989), 1988-1989
3
24
Michigan Ceramics '89, 1988-1989
3
25
Art Works for AIDS (1990), 1990-1991
3
26
100 Years of Washington Art: New Perspectives (1990), 1990
3
27
Robert Sperry at Janet Hudson Gallery (1990), 1990
3
28
Black & White: An Exhibition of Contemporary Ceramics (1990), 1989-1990
3
29
"13th Annual Clay Exhibition" at Millersville University (1990), 1989-1990
3
30
NCECA Conference 1991, 1990-1991
3
31
"Beyond Serving" (1991), 1990-1991
3
32
Minor Works by Major Artists (1991), 1990-1991
3
33
Artists at Work (1991), 1990-1991
3
34
Archie Bray Foundation Benefit Exhibition (1991), 1991
3
35
Robert Sperry at Helen Drutt Gallery (1991), 1991
3
36
Swidler Gallery (1991), 1991
3
37
The Artful Charger (1991), 1989-1991
3
38
Walls: Large-Scale Ceramic Sculpture Eight Variations (1991), 1990-1991
3
39
Masterworks: Pacific Northwest Arts and Crafts Now (1991), 1991
3
40
Seattle Art Tour (1992), 1992
3
41
Black & White Ceramics II (1992), 1990-1992
3
42
Corporate Art West (1992), 1992
3
43
National Ceramic Invitational (1992), 1991-1992
3
44
Twist Platter Exhibition (1992), 1992
3
45
Revolving Techniques (1992), 1991-1992
3
46
1992 Ceramics Invitational at Sunbird Gallery, 1991-1993
3
47
"Studio Potter's Twentieth Anniversary Collection" (1992), 1991-1992
3
48
Schneider-Bluhm-Loeb Gallery Show, 1992-1993, undated
3
49
Robert Sperry at the National Academy of Sciences (1993), 1991-1994
3
50
Pacific Rim Japan (1993), 1993
3
51
Green Meadow Invitational Pottery Show (1993), 1992-1993
3
52
North by Northwest (1993), 1993
3
53
Artfair Seattle 1993, 1993
3
54
Year of the American Craft (1993), 1992-1993
3
55
"Clay 1993: A National Survey,", 1993
3
56
Contemporary American Ceramics (1993), 1992-1993
3
57
Robert Sperry: New Works (1993), 1992-1993
3
58
Chicago International New Art Forms Exposition (1993), 1993
3
59
Architectural Clay (1993), 1992-1993
3
60
Living Treasures (1993), 1992-1993, undated
3
61
The Legacy of the Archie Bray Foundation (1993), 1993
3
62-63
Art Works for AIDS '93, 1992-1993
3
64
"Arts and Crafts of the Pacific Northwest" (1994), 1994
3
65
"30 Ceramic Sculptors Exhibition" (1994), 1994
3
66
James Renwick Alliance Tour to Seattle (1994), 1994
3
67
Contemporary Crafts and the Saxe Collection (1994), 1991-1994
3
68
Potters & Prints (1994), 1994
3
69
"Influence and Introspection: Pacific NW Ceramics" (1995), 1995
3
70
"Heart of the Arts" (1995), 1994
3
71
Art Works for AIDS (1995), 1994-1995
3
72
"Clay: a Continuing Tradition" (1996), 1996
3
73
The Estate of Robert Sperry: Ceramics and Prints (1999), 1999
3
74
Miscellaneous, 1964-1966, 1975-1999, undated
3
75-79
Back to Top

Series 4: Gallery Files, 1962-2000, undated
(Boxes 3-4; 0.8 linear feet)

This series contains files for galleries which exhibited and sold works by Robert Sperry, and may include exhibition announcements and invitations, brochures, correspondence with Sperry, contracts, invoices, and consignment lists and agreements. However, materials relating to certain exhibitions will be found in the Exhibition files in Series 3. The bulk of the material is dated after 1979 with the exception of the Henry Gallery, America House, and the Contemporary Crafts Gallery. Materials in this series are arranged alphabetically by gallery name.
Description Container Select
Albertson-Peterson Gallery, Inc., 1984-1993, undated
3
80
America House, 1960-1966, undated
3
81
American Craft Museum, 1981-1997, undated
3
82
Annex Gallery, 1987, undated
3
83
Art South, 1986, 1992
3
84
Bellevue Art Museum, 1979-1986, 1991, 1998, undated
3
85
Bentley-Tomlinson Gallery, 1992-1995, undated
3
86
Contemporary Crafts Gallery, 1967, 1975-1986, undated
3
87
Cross Creek Gallery, 1986-1987, undated
4
1
Dorothy Weiss Gallery, 1985-2000
4
2
Elaine Potter Gallery, 1984-1986, undated
4
3
Elements Gallery/Eddy Beasley Associates, 1982-1992, undated
4
4
Erica Williams/Anne Johnson Gallery, 1979-1982, 1992, undated
4
5
Esther Saks Gallery, 1984-1991, undated
4
6-7
Following Sea, 1975-1980, undated
4
8
Gordon Woodside/John Braseth Galleries, 1983-1984
4
9
Great American Gallery (Gillette-Frutchey), 1982-1985, undated
4
10
Helen Drutt Gallery, 1981, 1991-1993, undated
4
11
Henry Gallery, University of Washington, 1961-1971, 1979-1995, undated
4
12
Hokin Gallery, 1990-1991, undated
4
13
Impressions Gallery, 1979-1981, undated
4
14
Joanne Rapp Gallery/The Hand and the Spirit, 1983-1994, undated
4
15-17
Kavesh Gallery, 1991, 1994-1995
4
18
Maple Hill Gallery, 1986, undated
4
19
Maveety Gallery (Lawrence Gallery), 1984-1993, undated
4
20-21
Netsky Gallery, 1982-1986, undated
4
22
Robert Kidd Gallery, 1981-1992, 1998, undated
4
23-24
Southwest Craft Center, 1985-1987, undated
4
25
Sylvia Ullman's American Crafts, 1975-1979, 1988, undated
4
26
Wita Gardiner Gallery, 1987-1988
4
27
Back to Top

Series 5: Project and Workshop Files, 1967-1996, undated
(Box 4; 0.4 linear feet)

Files in this series typically contain correspondence, expense lists, receipts, itineraries, notes, and printed material related to sculpture projects and workshops that Robert Sperry completed primarily during the 1980s and 1990s. Project files include public commissions, notably the King County Administration Building Mural Project, IBM Wall Project, and the SAFECO sculpture. Files are arranged chronologically by year.
Description Container Select
"Profiles Cast Long Shadows" Film Project, 1967, undated
4
28
Anderson Ranch Arts Foundation Workshop, 1979-1981
4
29
University of Iowa Workshop, 1980
4
30
"Ceramics 80" Workshop, 1980, 1982
4
31
Georgia State University Workshop, 1981
4
32
National Council on Education for Ceramic Arts 1982 Panel Member, 1981-1982
4
33
Washington State Arts Commission Art in Public Places Program, 1981-1985
4
34-35
Fraser Valley Potters Guild Workshop, 1982-1983
4
36
IBM Wall Project, 1983-1985
4
37
King County Administration Building Mural Project, 1983-1986
4
38
Florida Craftsmen Conference Workshop, 1986-1987
4
39
National Council on Education for Ceramic Arts Conference '88: "East Meets West,", 1987-1988
4
40
"Clay Revisions: Plate, Cup, Vase Clay Conference '89,", 1988-1989
4
41
Kaplan Mural Commission, 1988-1989
4
42
SAFECO Sculpture Project, 1988-1991, undated
4
43-45
Kerns Art Center Workshop, 1989
4
46
Emily Carr College of Art & Design Lecture, 1989-1990
4
47
Hewlett-Packard Commission, 1990
4
48
Saint Louis Galleria Mural Project, 1990-1991
4
49-50
Peoples State Bank Project, 1991, undated
4
51
"Functional Pottery: Past, Present, Future" Symposium, 1991-1992
4
52
National Council on Education for Ceramic Arts Conference '94: "Gumbo Ceramique,", 1993-1994
4
53
"Focus on Fire" Workshop, 1994
4
54
Phoenix College Workshop, 1994-1996
4
55
"Fahrenheit 96: Solid.Liquid.Solid" Symposium, 1996
4
56
Miscellaneous, 1988-1989, 1996, undated
4
57
Back to Top

Series 6: Writings, 1966-1990, undated
(Box 5; 0.5 linear feet)

This series houses writings by Robert Sperry and others, as well as Sperry's calendars. Writings by Sperry contain drafts for two articles published in art magazines. Also of interest is a family history he wrote which includes memories of his childhood on his family's farm, as well as many scanned photographs. This series also includes the screenplay, treatment and shooting script, and notes for "The Room" a film which Sperry never completed. Also found are many personal writings such as a brief journal, poetry, and miscellaneous notes. Writings by Others contain essays on art topics. Also included are various drafts of the catalog for the 1985 Robert Sperry retrospective. This sub-series is arranged alphabetically by author's last name.
The Writings are organized into three subseries:
  • 6.1: Writings by Sperry, 1966-1990
  • 6.2: Writings by Others, 1986, undated
  • 6.3: Calendars, 1976-1984

6.1

Writings by Sperry, 1966-1990
Description Container
Article, "Abstractions in Black and White," Ceramics Monthly, 1989-1990
5
1
Article, The Studio Potter, 1985-1986
5
2
Family History, "Growing Up on the Prairies,", undated
5
3
Journal, 1976-1978, 1982, 1990, undated
5
4-5
Notes, "The Room,", undated
5
6
Notes, Miscellaneous, 1976, 1986, undated
5
7
Poetry, 1966-1973, undated
5
8-9
Screenplay, "The Room,", undated
5
10
Treatment and Shooting Script, "The Room,", undated
5
11

6.2

Writings by Others, 1986, undated
Description Container
Author Unknown, "The McCloud Gold Medal for Peter Voulkos,", 1986
5
12
Author Unknown, "Patti Warashina's Little Worlds,", undated
5
13
Author Unknown, "Robert Sperry,", undated
5
14
Ball, F. Carlton, "Biographical Notes,", undated
5
15
Kangas, Matthew, Catalog for "Robert Sperry: A Retrospective,", 1986
5
16-17
Krogstad, Karl, "Idiot Savant,", undated
5
18
Romberg, Jim, "An Ancient Rerun,", undated
5
19

6.3

Calendars, 1976-1984
Description Container
Calendars, 1976-1984
5
20-22
Back to Top

Series 7: Scrapbook, 1955-1964
(Box 5; 8 folders)

This series contains one scrapbook which includes materials that Robert Sperry gathered between 1955 and 1964. The items are primarily related to exhibitions and newspaper articles featuring Sperry's artwork and include exhibition announcements and correspondence, photographs, and numerous press clippings.
Description Container Select
Scrapbook, 1955-1964
5
23-30
Back to Top

Series 8: Financial Records, 1961-1995, undated
(Boxes 5-6; 1.0 linear foot)

This series consists mainly of files for living and business expenses for Robert Sperry and his wife Patti Warashina from 1976 to 1984. Files include bills, receipts, and handwritten lists of expenses. Also found are files for records of earnings from the University of Washington, various lectures, and pottery sales. Other financial records include income tax returns, stocks, and the Myrtle Sperry Estate. Materials are arranged alphabetically by subject with miscellaneous items at the end.
Description Container Select
Art Model Expenses, 1978-1979
5
31
Auto Expenses, 1982
5
32
Books and Photograph Expenses, 1976-1984
5
33-41
Entertaining and Gift Expenses, 1976-1984
5
42-45
Household Expenses, 1982
5
46
Income Tax Returns, 1982
5
47
Karl Krogstad Payments, 1980-1982
5
48
Lecture Expenses and Earnings, 1976-1979
5
49-52
Lecture Expenses and Earnings, 1980-1984
6
1-5
Myrtle Sperry Estate, 1983
6
6
Patti's Trip to Japan, Expenses, 1978
6
7
Personal Purchases, 1982
6
8
Pottery Expenses, 1976-1984
6
9-20
Pottery Sales, 1976-1984
6
21
Shop Tool Expenses, 1978, 1980-1983
6
22
Stocks and IRA, 1984
6
23
Trip to England and Italy, Expenses, 1979
6
24
University of Washington Wages, 1961, 1976-1984, 1986
6
25-26
Miscellaneous, 1963-1995, undated
6
27
Back to Top

Series 9: Miscellaneous Subject Files, 1975-1998, undated
(Box 6; 0.2 linear feet)

This series contains materials on a variety of topics and include all correspondence, printed material, notes, and other related documents. Files are arranged alphabetically by subject.
Description Container Select
Dolphin Defenders Membership, undated
6
28
Donation of Papers to the Archives of American Art, 1995, 1998
6
29
Estate of Myrtle Sperry, 1983
6
30
Estate of Zoe E. Sperry, 1978
6
31
Exhibition Juror, Craft Art South 1981, 1981
6
32
Exhibition Juror, "Vessels in Celebration,", 1994-1996
6
33
Glaze Recipes and Notes, 1975, undated
6
34
"Globalization and Modern Art" Cover Design, 1994
6
35
Krogstad Studios Movie Investment, 1980-1985, undated
6
36
Multiple Myeloma, 1996-1997, undated
6
37
Patti Warashina's Japan Trip, 1978
6
38
Request for Travel Funds, 1979
6
39
Teaching Committee Reports, undated
6
40
Back to Top

Series 10: Printed Material, 1955-2002, undated
(Boxes 6-10; 3.4 linear feet)

This series includes printed material and publications which mention Robert Sperry and his artwork as well as materials on events in the arts. There are numerous newspaper and magazine clippings on Sperry, his exhibitions and workshops, and other miscellaneous articles and images that he found interesting. Files of clippings about Sperry contain many reviews of his work. Also within this series are exhibition announcements and catalogs for Sperry and other artists, brochures for galleries and events, calendars of events, gallery guides, and newsletters. The series contains many art publications and a few non-art publications which mention Sperry and show his work, and books primarily on ceramics. This series is arranged alphabetically by type of material with miscellaneous items at the end.
Description Container Select
Book, 2020 Vision: Health in the 21st Century, 1996
6
41
Book, Art in Seattle's Public Places, 1992
6
42
Book, Ceramics: A Potter's Handbook by Glenn C. Nelson, 1971
6
43
Book, The Craftsman's World, 1959
6
44
Book, Dimensions of Design, 1958
6
45
Book, The First World Congress of Craftsmen, 1965
7
1
Book, Jet Dreams: Art of the Fifties in the Northwest, 1995
7
2
Book, Research in the Crafts, 1961
7
3
Brochures, Miscellaneous, 1987-1988, 1992-1993, undated
7
4
Brochures, United Tile, undated
7
5
Brochures, Workshops, 1963-1965, 1975-1994, undated
7
6
Calendars of Events, 1966, 1987-1993, undated
7
7
Catalogs, Ceramic Supplies, undated
7
8
Catalogs, PONCHO Auction, 1985, 1991
7
9
Catalogs, Workshops, 1968, 1978, 1986-1987
7
10
Clippings, Biographical, 1956-1998, undated
7
11
Clippings, Humorous, 1992-1993, 1997, undated
7
12
Clippings, Images, 1979, 1985-1988, undated
7
13
Clippings, Workshops and Exhibition Articles, 1955-1999, undated
7
14-19
Clippings, Miscellaneous, 1958-1996, undated
7
20-26
Exhibition Announcements, Robert Sperry, 1956-1969, 1976-2000, undated
7
27-29
Exhibition Announcements, Other Artists, 1957-2001, undated
7
30-32
Exhibition Catalogs, Robert Sperry, 1956-1961, undated
7
33-35
Exhibition Catalogs, Robert Sperry, 1962-1968, 1977-1997, 2002
8
1-20
Exhibition Catalogs, Other Artists, 1961-1966, 1982-1996, undated
8
21-23
Gallery Guides, 1986-1987, 1993-1999
9
1
Newsletters, The Arts, 1983-1985
9
2
Newsletters, Miscellaneous, 1957, 1961-1998
9
3-4
Other, Arthur Efron, "Technology and the Future of Art,", undated
9
5
Other, International Academy of Ceramics Bulletin, 1984, 1985, 1987
9
6
Other, John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation List of Fellowship Recipients, 1991-1992
9
7
Other, Matthew Kangas Published Writings, 1981-1982, undated
9
8
Publications, American Ceramics, 1983, 1986, 1991, 1993
9
9-10
Publications, American Craft, 1980-1987, 1990-1994
9
11-16
Publications, Argus, 1981
9
17
Publications, ARTFORUM, 1964
9
18
Publications, Art Gallery International, 1989
9
19
Publications, Art in America, 1979-1980
9
20
Publications, Arts Line, 1984
9
21
Publications, Ceramic Art, 1966
9
22
Publications, Ceramics: Art and Perception, 1994
9
23
Publications, Ceramics Monthly, 1980-1987, 1990, 1993
9
24-26
Publications, Craft Horizons, 1955, 1960, 1962-1964
9
27-30
Publications, Creative Crafts, 1961
9
31
Publications, Design Quarterly, 1958
9
32
Publications, Miscellaneous (Non-Art), 1982, 1987, 1990
9
33
Publications, NCECA Journal, 1982-1983, 1987-1989
9
34-35
Publications, New Art Examiner, 1987
10
1
Publications, The Studio Potter, 1985
10
2
Publications, Sunset, 1963
10
3
Publications, Surface, 1990
10
4
Publications, Vanguard, 1982
10
5
Reports, "Art in the Embassies Program Progress,", undated
10
6
Reports, University of Washington Fortieth Biennial Report, 1967-1969
10
7
Tool Instruction Manuals, undated
10
8
Miscellaneous, 1961-1966, 1986, undated
10
9
Back to Top

Series 11: Photographs, 1963, undated
(Box 10; 0.2 linear feet)

This series contains photographs, negatives, and slides, mainly from Robert Sperry's stay in Japan in 1963 while making the film "Village Potters of Onda." Also found are photographs and negatives of Sperry, his family (first wife Edyth and son Van), and artwork by him and other artists. The slides include photos taken by Sperry in 1976 at Grayland State Park, Washington, and Palm Gardens, Florida, and in 1979 at an unidentified political event. This series is arranged alphabetically by subject with negatives and slides filed separate from photographs.
Description Container Select
Artwork by Sperry, undated
10
10
Hiroshima Visit, 1963
10
11
Japan, 1963
10
12
Japanese Potters, 1963
10
13
Miscellaneous, undated
10
14
Other Artists, undated
10
15
Sperry and Family, undated
10
16
Sperry in the Studio, undated
10
17
Unidentified, undated
10
18
Negatives, Henry Gallery Exhibition Pottery, undated
10
19
Negatives, Hiroshima Visit, 1963
10
20
Negatives, Japan, 1963
10
21
Negatives, Nature, undated
10
22
Negatives, Sperry and Family, undated
10
23
Negatives, Sperry in the Studio, undated
10
24
Negatives, Student Artwork, undated
10
25
Negatives, Unidentified, undated
10
26
Negatives, "Yanagihara,", circa 1963
10
27
Slides, 1976, 1979, undated
10
28
Back to Top

Series 12: Sketches and Drawings, 1984, undated
(Box 10; 2 folders)

This series contains sketches and drawings by Robert Sperry which do not appear to be related to his ceramic works. Also found is one small pen drawing by his wife, Patti Warashina.
Description Container Select
Sketches and Drawings by Robert Sperry, undated
10
29
Drawing by Patti Warashina, 1984
10
30
Back to Top

Series 13: Moving Image Material, circa 1962-1998, undated
(Boxes 10-12, FC 13-18; 3.1 linear feet, ER01; 0.907 GB)

Moving image material includes video recordings and motion picture film with a wide range of content. Video recordings include two documentaries on Sperry, studio footage, exhibition footage. Motion picture film includes footage for Sperry's film "Profiles Cast Long Shadows" as well as other short films and experiments in a range of styles and genres, including animation such as the animated film "Henry," hand colored film, live action footage, abstract design, and narrative short films by Sperry. A research copy in digital format of eight film titles is available, including "Familiar Thickets", Celantano Painting", "Room", "Village Potters of Onda", "Skull Waves at Deception Pass", "Family", "Experimental Color Print", and "Food Color". Lab notes are also found for the films "Color Printing Experiment" and "Breakfast".
Description Container Select
Video Recordings
"Attitudes: Goal Setting for Achievement", 1988
1 Videocassettes (VHS)
10
31
"Bob Sperry in the Studio", 1987
2 Videocassettes (VHS)
1 video labeled "Edited," 1 labeled "Uncut"
10
32
"Robert Sperry: A Northwest Master", 1998
1 Videocassettes (VHS)
10
33
"Views & Visions in the Pacific Northwest: The Making of an Exhibition", 1990
1 Videocassettes (VHS)
10
33
SAFECO Promotional Video", 1991
1 Videocassettes (VHS)
10
34
Film Notes
Lab Notes for "Color Printing Experiment" and "Breakfast", circa 1966
10
35
Research Copy of 8 Film Titles (circa 2002), Digital Video Recording, 2019
0.907 Gigabytes
Films included: Familiar Thickets; Celantano Painting; Room; The Village Potters of Onda; Skull Waves at Deception Pass; Family; Experimental Color Print; Food Color.
ER01
Film
"Animated Drawing Experiments", circa 1966
1 Film reel
16 mm
FC 27
"Animated Napolean", circa 1965
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 13
"Art 129", circa 1963
"Art 129" reel 2, 1963
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 23
"Art 129" reel 1, 1963
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 26
"Belly Dancer", circa 1968
1 Film reel
16 mm
FC 24
"Breakfast", 1966
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 14
"Breakfast," A-roll, 1966
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 15
"Breakfast," B-roll, 1966
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 16
"Breakfast," Outtakes, 1966
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 19
"Celantano Painting", circa 1967
1 Film reel
16 mm
See ER01 for research copy in digital format.
FC 21
"Caterpillar", circa 1967
1 Film reel
16 mm
FC 25
"Cello-Tak", circa 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 17
"Cello-Tak" Outtakes, 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 18
"Color Printing Experiment", circa 1966
Lab notes found in Box 10, folder 35
"Color Printing Experiment" C-Roll, 1966
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 22
"Color Printing Experiment" B-Roll, 1966
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 33
"Color Printing Experiment" A-Roll, 1966
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 34
"Driving Footage", circa 1966
1 Film reel
16 mm
FC 35
"Experimental Color Print", circa 1967
1 Film reel
16 mm
See ER01 for research copy in digital format.
FC 28
"Family", circa 1967
1 Film reel
16 mm
See ER01 for research copy in digital format.
FC 30
"Familiar Thickets", circa 1967
See ER01 for research copy in digital format.
"Familiar Thickets" Magnetic Track, 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 20
"Familiar Thickets" work print, 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 32
"Familiar thickets" Color Sound Print, 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 31
"Food Color", circa 1967
1 Film reel
Hand colored
16 mm
See ER01 for research copy in digital format.
FC 29
"Hamada", circa 1967
1 Film reel
16 mm
FC 39
"Hey There Voyager/Now Look Here Voyager", 1966
1 Film reel
Hand painted optical soundtrack
16 mm
FC 40
"Later Henry", circa 1965
"Later Henry" , 1965
1 Film reel
16mm
Original hand-painted film
FC 41
"Later Henry" duplicate, 1965
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 42
"Profiles Cast Long Shadows" Outtakes and Production Elements, 1967
"Profiles Cast Long Shadows" Amusement Park, 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 43
"Profiles Cast Long Shadows" Amusement Park outtakes, 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 44
"Profiles Cast Long Shadows" Rape A-Roll, 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 45
"Profiles Cast Long Shadows" Rape B-Roll, 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 46
"Profiles Cast Long Shadows" Rape Outtakes, 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 47
"Profiles Cast Long Shadows" Prostitute Scene Outtakes, 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 48
"Profiles Cast Long Shadows" Footage of Woman Outtakes, 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 49
"Room", circa 1967
Footage may be related to "Profiles Cast Long Shadows" project. See ER01 for research copy of "Room" in digital format.
"Room", 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 37
"The Room" segment, 1967
1 Film reel
16mm
"Mickey Guston (Profiles Segment), The Room"
FC 38
"Skull Waves at Deception Pass", circa 1967
1 Film reel
16 mm
See ER01 for research copy in digital format.
FC 36
"Stills - Band - Fire", circa 1966
1 Film reel
16 mm
FC 50
"Van - Motorbike", circa 1962
1 Film reel
16 mm
FC 51
"Visual Structure", circa 1965
1 Film reel
16 mm
FC 52
Untitled Optical Soundtrack, undated
1 Film reel
16mm
FC 53

Make a Request

  • To request an appointment to view materials, make your selections using the checkboxes and click the "Reading Room" button. Please note, you will receive the full box.
  • To request reproductions, make your selections using the checkboxes and click the "Reproduction" button.