Coat rack, 1989

The collection contains sketches, design work, detailed drawings and artifacts representing Ade Bethune’s original artwork, done over the course of her life. Materials in the art and design category of the collection represent work done between 1935 and 2001. Work includes miscellaneous art and design produced throughout her career, some items remaining difficult to classify within a specific category. Highlights of this collection include works commissioned by individuals for the purpose of ordination cards, paintings and other projects including the fireplace screen design for Carlton G. MacDougald, and the Sacred Heart design for the mantel in the Putnam residence of Woonsocket, RI. Significant illustrative design work was done for the Stedman Missal and Stedman’s My Lenten Missal. Other projects include extensive heraldic work for Indiana University and a symbol for the Scranton, PA, University Library. Some of the designs in this collection were done for proposed work that was never carried out or simply as an outlet for Bethune’s creative expression. All of the files represent the progression of her artistic work over time and as a result of her education and experiences. She worked steadily and with passion throughout her life.