Many of the images we have of pirates today come from the versions we see in the Pirates of the Caribbean movie series and the Errol Flynn films of the early screen era. This romanticized version of pirates originated with Howard Pyle, a Delaware artist who was one of the most influential American illustrators of the late 19th century.
Through his art and that of his students and imitators, Pyle’s portrayal of a pirate with a headscarf, earring, and sash has become the accepted image that continues to be popular today.
This program is presented by David Rickman, an Exhibits Coordinator with the State Division of Parks and Recreation and an illustrator himself. Rickman will discuss how his admiration of Pyle’s art led him to research why the famous illustrator created the image of pirates that continues to thrive on movie screens and in the American imagination.
The presentation will take place at the Delaware Public Archives on Aug. 1, at 10:30 a.m. This is a free presentation and no reservations are required. The Delaware Public Archives is located at 121 Duke of York Street in Dover, Delaware. For more information, contact Jessica Carmichael (302) 744-5081, jessica.carmichael@state.de.us.
