Reading lists and articles featuring Alice Provensen

Alice Provensen Biography

Alice Rose Provensen (née Twitchell; August 14, 1918 – April 23, 2018) and Martin Provensen (July 10, 1916 – March 27, 1987) stand as an eminent American duo, renowned for illustrating over 40 children’s books, with 19 of those also bearing their authorial imprint. Their artistic collaboration, epitomized by unity, spanned a prolific career.

Originating from Chicago, both Alice and Martin pursued their artistic endeavors in California, receiving scholarships to the Art Institute of Chicago. Post-university, Alice contributed to Walter Lantz Studio, while Martin contributed to Walt Disney Studio, contributing to iconic productions like Pinocchio, Fantasia, and Dumbo.

Their paths intertwined in 1943 when Martin, involved in military training films, joined Walter Lantz Studio, leading to their marriage in 1944. Relocating to Washington, D.C., after World War II, they embarked on illustrating endeavors, starting with The Fireside Book of Folk Songs. Notable collaborations included The Color Kittens by Margaret Wise Brown (1949) and the iconic Tony the Tiger character for Kellogg’s in 1952.

In 1982, the Provensens received acclaim as Caldecott Medal runners-up for A Visit to William Blake’s Inn, followed by a triumph in 1984 for The Glorious Flight, a captivating narrative about aviator Louis Blériot.

Their creative legacy extends beyond awards, with eight books gracing The New York Times annual Ten Best Illustrated Books. The Provensens left an indelible mark, illustrating Donald Waxman’s “Pageants for Piano” and creating enduring classics like Our Animal Friends at Maple Hill Farm (1974) and An Owl and Three Pussycats (1981).

The couple’s Maple Hill Farm in Dutchess County, New York, became both home and muse. Tragically, Martin’s passing in 1987 marked a significant loss, yet Alice persisted, contributing solo works like The Buck Stops Here: the Presidents of the United States (1990) and My Fellow Americans: a family album (1995).

Alice Provensen’s indomitable spirit persisted into her nineties, showcasing unwavering dedication. She made a notable move to San Clemente, California, to live with family, passing away just months before her 100th birthday.

The Provensens’ legacy endures through a vast collection of timeless works, illustrating and narrating stories that have resonated across generations, leaving an enduring impact on children’s literature.