Alex Gildzen, Editor, J. Charles Walker (his copy), Designer, Kent State University Libraries, Publisher, 1971, edition 6/500, poems, each signed by poets in ink by John Ashbery, James Bertolino, Gwendolyn Brooks, Denise Levertov, Steven Osterlund, and Gary Snyder, drawings on acetate reproduced directly as prints, each signed by artists Grace Hartigan, Alex Katz, Otto Piene, Fairfield Porter, Harvey Quaytman, Mary Ann Begland Sacco, and Robert Smithson, poems, 12 x 10 in.; prints, 12-1/4 x 10 in.; printed paper folder, 13 x 11 in.

Provenance: From the Collection of John Brett Buchanan and John Charles Walker

Note: The collection of John Charles Walker (j.Charles) and John Brett Buchanan reflects five decades of influence in design education and contemporary art. Both are professors emeritus from Kent State University, where j.Charles was hired in 1964 to establish the university’s first graphic design program. Over 38 years, he built it into a nationally respected discipline and later became the founding director of the School of Visual Communication Design. He also developed innovative summer programs in the U.S. and Europe featuring leading designers. Buchanan contributed as a professor, leading internship placements and managing Glyphix, a student-run design studio founded by Walker. Together, they secured major grants and corporate support from companies such as Apple Inc., Quark Inc., and Adobe Inc., while also operating a successful design firm serving Fortune 500 clients. Their work earned over 250 design awards. Their art collection includes works by regional, national, and international artists, notably early acquisitions of Andy Warhol and Christo. Their legacy continues through endowments supporting design students and professionals.

Lot 84 is a mixed media composition by Otto Piene titled Composition (Building), that is the same subject matter as the print.