[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 71 (Friday, June 9, 2000)]
[House]
[Page H4125]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         TRIBUTE TO LEONARD BASKIN, AN ORIGINAL AMERICAN ARTIST

  (Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts asked and was given permission to address 
the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take the 
opportunity this morning to pay special tribute to an extraordinary 
individual from my district who passed away last week in Leeds, 
Massachusetts, after a lengthy illness.
  Leonard Baskin was an acclaimed artist with a unique style and vision 
whose sculptures, woodcuts, prints, and books are celebrated throughout 
the world. One can find an original Baskin on display in public 
collections from New York to Rome.
  Here in our Nation's Capitol, his remarkable skills helped recreate 
both the Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Calvin Coolidge memorials. Quite 
simply, he has been called one of the finest sculptors of our time.
  Born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, in 1922, Leonard Baskin was 
educated at Yale University, served in the Navy, taught art at both 
Smith and Hampshire Colleges, and received countless medals and awards.
  Mr. Speaker, his brilliant work touched and inspired many. As we 
mourn his passing today, I urge the Members of this House to join me in 
honoring this truly American original.

                          ____________________