Alphonse Normandia 1928-2013

Here’s a window into the life and times of Alphonse Normandia - artist, cartoonist and fun-loving ad man extraordinaire - through his well-traveled sketchbooks. His pen was his companion from the 1940’s to 2010’s: from Haiti to Europe, Monhegan to New York City.

Those of you who knew him may attest to his wacky sense of humor, superlative talent and warm heart.

He loved his Madison Avenue job at BBDO where he started in 1944 as a paste-up boy. Working his way up to TV Art Director and Vice President, Alphonse ended his ascent in charge of Animatics. He adored his colleagues and the feeling was mutual; 59 years with one of the largest Advertising agencies in the world, BBDO honored Alphonse by commissioning a bronze bust of him (by Bob Walker pictured above). Employees are encouraged to rub his big nose for good luck.

On top of all this, with his Cooper Couple wife of thirty years, he taught his 5 children to draw and served as a volunteer fireman in Bellerose, NY.

His antics and cartoons are documented in the best-selling book Me and Alphonse. Check out his hilarious bio online at the Hagley Museum. .

Alphonse’s cartoons appeared in the New Yorker and Playboy. His temp-toos have graced the arms (and whatevers) of many a fair maiden and man. He could have performed in vaudeville singing the tunes he loved.

But these sketches will show you the twinkle in his eye as he watched the people in it. Simply click on each book to open his world.

Publications:

Playboy

The New Yorker

Esquire

Mad Magazine

Diners Club

The Los Angeles Times

Self-portrait circa 1947