This gorgeous new book covers the life of artist Burke Tyree. I wasn’t familiar with the artist when I ordered the book but now I realize I have seen his paintings before especially when I went to Minne's in Modesto years ago.
What is wonderful about this book, are all the small pieces of history the author found about Tyree, not just his paintings but small things like a birthday card he illustrated for his wife or photos of a play plane he built for his kids on Guam.
It appears the author has been working on this project for years and was in close contact with the family, which really shines through in this book due to the items he was able to share.
Tyree had one of those lives that would make a great movie. Stowed away on a boat at a young age, met a beautiful girl who he would later marry (and have 7 kids!), lived in Guam, Hawaii and California. And painted gorgeous naked Polynesian women.
He had only heard of Leetag but by time Tyree got into painting on velvet, Leetag was dead. Tyree was painting on board previously and sold many of those worldwide. Then he moved onto velvet and his paintings look even more lush.
One thing I loved is that he made his frames himself and incorporated a notching technique that his kids helped with.
The book also includes the romance between him and his wife, we get to see letters he wrote during the war, many he illustrated.
It seems the whole family is artistic and the end of the book includes nice summaries on what they have done. I am sure he would be very proud.
After reading this book, I think I need to take another trip to Minnie’s!
Below are some scans from the book. They really don't do the book justice though, it is a very attractive and readable book. You can purchase the book here and even get it inscribed by the author. Also a congrats to the author for winning the two gold awards in 2017 from the Independent Book and Publishers Association (IBPA). The book won the Best Biography award & Best Cover award. That cover does make you want to do a face out display!
