Unveiling of Sparky’s Portrait at the National Portrait Gallery
Washington, D.C.
The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery honored all of us who loved Sparky and continue to love his creation, Peanuts, with the installation of a photographic portrait taken in 1986 by renowned Canadian photographer, Yousuf Karsh. The image was donated to the National Portrait Gallery by Yousuf’s widow, Estrellita.
A group of Santa Rosa friends, Peanuts fans from near and far, cartoonist colleagues, and family members (and of course Snoopy!) joined in the celebration at the National Portrait Gallery.
The induction ceremony celebrated the legacies of two enduring artists, Sparky and Yousuf Karsh. Though short, the presentation featured memorable speeches from (left to right): Martin Sullivan, Directorof the National Portrait Gallery; the lovely Mrs. Estrellita Karsh, widow of Yousuf Karsh; Lee Mendelson, producer of the Peanuts animated specials; Snoopy, who, though he did not speak, embodied the love and humor of the morning; Jean Schulz; and Ed Anderson, long-time friend and attorney to Sparky as well as a founding Board Member of the Museum.
Sparky’s children, Jill (far left) and Craig (far right), were also in attendance (seen here with Jean Schulz, Snoopy, and Estrellita Karsh).
—Jean Schulz
Washington, D.C.
