Ruth West collection on Charles Heaney

Collection

Identifier: WUA081

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This collection includes letters and calligraphy written by Heaney to Ruth and Rex West. The subjects of these letters often revolves around the planning of lunches or dinners between friends. For practice Heaney often copied found texts in "itallic," sending them along with his letters. Also included in this collection are two paintings of Heaney's.

Dates

1969-2005

Creator

West, Ruth (Person)

Language of Materials

Materials are in English.

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open to researchers.

Conditions Governing Use

Library acts as “fair use” reproduction agent.

For further information, see the section on copyright in the Regulations and Procedures of the Willamette University Archives and Special Collections.

Copyright Information: Before material from collections at Willamette University Archives and Special Collections may be quoted in print, or otherwise reproduced, in whole or in part, in any publication, permission must be obtained from (1) the owner of the physical property, and (2) the holder of the copyright. It is the particular responsibility of the researcher to obtain both sets of permission. Persons wishing to quote from materials in any collections held by University Archives and Special Collections should consult the University Archivist. Reproduction of any item must contain a complete citation to the original.

Biographic Note

Charles Edward Heaney (1897-1981) was born in 1897 to John and Elizabeth Heaney of Oconto Falls, Wisconsin--he was the youngest of eight children. Heaney's father died when he was six years old. In 1913, at the age of 15, Heaney moved west to Portland, Oregon with his mother and his sister. On arriving in Portland, Heaney began operating box manufacturing machines for the F.C. Settler Company. Heaney began an apprenticeship with the Brandenburg Engraving Company as an engraver at the age of 18--developing skills that would later be evident in his etching. During this time he was encouraged by his employer, George O. Brandenburg, to attend courses at the Museum Art School (now the Pacific Northwest College of Art).

Throughout his prolific 60 year career Heaney drew inspiration from the variety of experiences surrounding him including both natural and man-made environments. Though initially gaining recognition as a printmaker, Heaney had established himself as one of the Northwest's premier painters by the 1950s. Heaney was diagnosed with cancer in 1980. He died in August, 1981.

Ruth and Rex West were friends of Charles Heaney and avid collectors of his work. Ruth West was a locally recognized textile artist and belonged to several weaving groups.

Extent

0.25 Linear Feet (1 box)

Additional Description

Overview

This collection includes letters and calligraphy written by artist Charles Heaney to Ruth and Rex West. Also included are two paintings of Heaney's as well as exhibition notices and newspaper clippings featuring Heaney's work.