Description
In addition to tribal names by location, the map includes illustrations of a Native American woman tending to a corn crop and a large masted sailing ship in the Atlantic Ocean. The decorative cartouche features crossed tomahawks and a scroll banner displaying the title. With its hand-drawn aesthetic, calligraphic text, and shading details, the illustration evokes the style of early cartography while serving as both an informative and artistic representation of indigenous history on Long Island.
Gil McCue, born in Queens, New York, in 1928, displayed artistic talent from an early age. However, his passion for art took a backseat when he enlisted in the Navy during World War II, serving from 1945 to 1948. After his service, he earned a full scholarship to Long Island University, where he resumed his artistic pursuits. In 1953, he married his wife, Norma, and after several years in New York, the couple relocated west to Oceanside in San Diego County. McCue’s time spent in Long Island is reflected in his body of work, which often draws upon aquatic imagery and colonial American and naval themes. A collection of pen and ink prints include impressive ships sailing in the water, a beautiful house by the shore, and a colonial woman tending to her bread in the oven. Settling in San Diego, McCue built a distinguished career as an educator, teaching at five different colleges while also authoring eight books — seven of them focusing on art — alongside a novel, The Encounter, and a memoir. Now, at nearly 95 years old, he continues to create and sell prints through San Diego’s Viz Art Gallery.
Signed in the matrix “Gil McCue, Ref: Smithtown Public Library, Li-NY -68.”
Condition: Generally very good with the usual overall light toning, wear, soft creases. Toning line from former matting in margin, can be matted out with new mat when reframed.
References:
“The Life Artwork of Gil McCue.
Viz Art Gallery. https://www.facebook.com/VizArtGallery/videos/the-life-artwork-of-gil-mccue/867126570103219/ (18 Feb 2025).
“The Indians of Long Island.” Matinecock Tribal Nation. https://www.matinecocktribalnation.org/the-indians-of-long-island (18 Feb 2025).
“WWII Vet Revels in Connection Through Art.” Steve Puterski. The Coast News. https://thecoastnews.com/wwii-vet-revels-in-connections-through-art/ (17 Feb 2025).
