Freeman's to Offer the Collection of Philanthropist Robert J. Morrison

Philadelphia —Freeman’s is honored to present Pop prints, multiples, graphics and art reference books from the estate of distinguished collector and philanthropist, Robert J. Morrison. The sale will feature iconic works by Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Claes Oldenburg, Jim Dine and many others. High value signed prints will be offered alongside his equally cherished rare exhibition posters, signed invitations, art books and other graphics that Morrison lovingly curated and amassed over a lifetime.
 
“There’s no doubt that collecting contemporary art can be a wonderful passion. Maybe even an obsession. For me, it has always been both, and I have never regretted the journey.” -ROBERT J. MORRISON

Sale Highlights
The core of Morrison’s collection is comprised of graphic works by two of the most important and influential artists of the Pop Art movement -- Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. Top works by Lichtenstein include Sweet Dreams Baby!, 1965 (Lot 26; $60,000-100,000); Crying Girl, 1963 (Lot 6; $30,000-50,000); and Shipboard Girl, 1965 (Lot 32; $30,000-50,000). Top works by Andy Warhol include Liz, 1964 (Lot 48; $20,000-30,000); Flowers, 1970 (Lot 65; $25,000 – 35,000); and three variations from his Mao series, two estimated at $30,000-50,000 and one at $20,000-30,000 (Lots 51-53). Other highlights to be offered include Ed Ruscha’s Rodeo, 1969 (Lot 83; $6,000 – 10,000); Wayne Thiebaud’s Black Suckers, 1971 (Lot 45; $15,000-25,000); and Robert Longo’s Rick, 1994 (Lot 76; $10,000-15,000).
 
Robert Morrison:  A Lifetime Love of Print
A celebrated advertising executive, Morrison was awarded more than 200 national creative awards over the course of his career, and later in life, turned his attention to philanthropic causes. He began what became his lifelong passion—collecting art—at the young age of 12. By the end of his life, Morrison owned hundreds of cherished graphic works, ranging from vintage postcards and gallery announcements to rare prints and multiples

Bob was also a dedicated philanthropist in Philadelphia, serving as a Board member and Chair of the Delaware Valley Legacy Fund. He also gave time and support to OutGivers, amfAR, and helped launch the WillPower Project. In 2007, in partnership with the Rockefeller Group, Bob created “The Fine Art of Tangible Assets,” a monograph and conversation discussing the transformation of collections into philanthropic capital, and more recently, helped launch an emerging art collectors’ group, Philly Stewards.