Bill Bartman, the founder and genius madman of Art Resources Transfer, died this morning after battling all kinds of illnesses over the last two decades. He will be missed by all of us who were lucky enough to encounter him.
More from James.
Update: Ed Winkleman tells one of my favorite Bill stories.
Without a doubt Bill Bartman was one of the most compassionate individuals concerned about ethics in the art world, preoccupied with the artists who he felt weren't recognized for their efforts, and pursued a fierce attitude of getting art information out to those who least understood it in an attempt to educate. He was beyond a patron to me, he was a "patron-saint". I will miss Bill and his most unusual and unique personality and behavior. In the 30 years that I have been focusing my energies on art making I have only met one individual that personified the essence of a supporter of the visual artist, regardless of the style, media, or intention, and that was Bill. I have known Bill since 1979 and myself and my family will sincerely miss him.
Lots of love,
Pat Sparkuhl & family
Hello everyone,
Bill was a divine being who adores his dogs more than anyone I have ever known. We STRAY FROM THE HEART, are the group he adopted from. We want to make sure that his dogs are in a good situation, and we will take them if there is any problem. If anyone knows anything about them could you please email me. I know Bill would want us to know.
love and hugs
Susan
Hi, Susan. Some good friends of Bill have agreed to take care of Bill's dogs. I forwarded your comment to them in case they wish to get in touch.
Thank you for writing. We will all miss Bill.