Vincent Smarkusz's S: Monogram and Signature Evolution
It is interesting to trace the development of this artist's signature from its natural form, through a series of abstract monograms, into the bold and iconic Smarkusz it eventually becomes. Just as the human figures in his art evolve through the years, so too does his signature - as if seeking and finding its final form and identity.
The Polish family name Smarkusz had been shortened to Smarkus when Vincent's father Wincenty immigrated to the U.S. in 1912. Vincent reinstated the Z at the end of of his signature after graduating from high school in 1938.
What follows is a presentation of its graphical metamorphosis, and an interpretation of the artist's subjective experience in creating such an important symbol of identity.
U.S Army Air Corp full signature 1943
To be continued.......
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