The Breakfast Table

Solomon Nodel: A Life in Art, Illumination, and Education

• Born: September 29, 1912, Washington, D.C., United States
• Died: August 22, 1976, Miami, Florida

Solomon Nodel was a multifaceted American artist known for his diverse talents as an artist, illuminator, educator, and art consultant. His career spanned several decades, marked by significant achievements in various artistic fields.

Early Life and Education

• Nodel received his early education at the Washington University School of Fine Arts and further honed his skills at the Grand Central School Art.
• These formative years laid the foundation for his future career, providing him with a strong technical base in artistic principles.

Artistic Career: Painting, Illumination, and Design

• Painting & Design: Nodel’s work encompassed a range of subjects and styles as an artist. He was known to create portraits and other works that reflected his unique perspective.
• Illumination: Perhaps his most celebrated achievement was the creation of a 12-panel illumination of Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. This monumental project showcased his exceptional skill in combining artistic talent with historical significance.
• Royal Commissions: Nodel’s illuminations were highly sought after, and he received commissions from five royal houses across Europe, as well as Japan, Switzerland, England, Israel, the Belgian Congo, France, and Italy. This international recognition underscored the quality and prestige of his work.

Awards and Recognition

• Nodel’s artistic contributions were widely recognized throughout his career. He was a recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including:
  • Monsanto Chemical Award
  • Proctor & Gamble Award
  • United States Army Gold Medal
  • St. Louis Young Men's Hebrew Association Prize
  • St. Louis Artists Guild recognition
• These accolades reflect the high regard in which Nodel was held by his peers and institutions within the art world.

Teaching, Legacy, and Collections

• Education: Beyond his artistic practice, Nodel dedicated himself to education, serving as an instructor at the St. Louis Settlement House and the Grand Central School Art.
• Exhibitions: His works were exhibited in prominent venues such as the St. Louis Art Museum, St. Louis Artists Guild, High Museum of Atlanta, Queens College, New York University, Pope Pius XII Memorial Library, St. Louis University, B’nai B’rith Museum, and others.
• Collections: Nodel's art is represented in permanent collections across the United States, Europe, Israel, and the Far East, as well as numerous private collections. This widespread representation speaks to the enduring appeal and historical significance of his work.
• Further Exploration: For a more extensive view of Solomon Nodel’s artwork, visit WikiOO.org or explore collections at the St. Louis Art Museum and the St. Louis Artists Guild.