Third Grade Artwork

My mom, it seems, saved everything I ever did. In her memorabila box, preserved by my sister, Louise, I found my report cards, letters I wrote, and of course, drawings.

By Third Grade I had discovered comic books, and, through them, science fiction. I was fascinated by the concept of there being planets out there, other than Earth, and my imagination ran unfettered by any actual knowledge of physics or astronomy. Nevertheless, my teacher, Mrs. Howe, encouraged me, which I am certain made all the difference in how I turned out.

I wasn't limited by my interest in space, however. For example, I was apparently also fascinated by gasoline stations and their supply trucks. (I think the light bulb is demonstrating a generator powered by the gasoline, as our electrical generator at home did.)

My entire drawing style, that I still use, was based on the comic books I read.

And as a parting shot, what was probably my first greeting card. Sent to my Mom, of course.