The E-Sylum:  Volume 7, Number 39, September 26, 2004, Article 17

INTERVIEW WITH NEW NICKEL DESIGNER

  The Silver Springs Gazette has an article interviewing the
  designer of the newest jefferson nickel:

  "Joe Fitzgerald, a Silver Spring artist who dabbles in portrait
  paintings and specializes in landscape pieces, is probably most
  proud of the work he recently did on a canvas spanning less
  than an inch wide.

  His work will be found in people's pockets, car ashtrays and
  between couch cushions beginning early next year when the
  United States Mint releases two newly designed nickels,
  Fitzgerald's recent project.

  "It's beyond imagination to have 1.5 billion pieces of your art
  out there," Fitzgerald said. "The idea that people will collect
  these for hundreds and thousands of years is unbelievable."

  Fitzgerald's design was among 144 submitted by U.S. Mint
  sculptor-engravers and members of the Mint's new Artistic
  Infusion Program."

  "The first nickel, one of two that will be released next year,
  was in part designed by a North Carolina artist, who depicted
  an image of a grazing buffalo on one side to recognize
  American Indians and wildlife encountered by the expedition.
  The front side of the nickel, which will appear on the two
  designs released, is of a newly designed Jefferson, created by
  Fitzgerald.

  The image includes a profile of Jefferson in the early 1800s
  with his pointy nose and sharp chin. Next to him, "Liberty" is
  written in Jefferson's handwriting. Fitzgerald said he wanted
  to emphasize the former president's role in creating the
  Declaration of Independence and defining liberty for the
  United States.

  "I wanted to convey the intelligence, the strength and the
  incredible determination that you see in Jefferson's eyes,"
  said Fitzgerald, 54.

  It was a challenge to fit all of Jefferson' traits on such a small
  portrait of one of Fitzgerald's greatest heroes, he said."

  To read the full story, see: Full Story

  Wayne Homren, Editor

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