Grim Natwick, Betty Boop, and Wisconsin Rapids

Following the delights of the Nina Paley panel in Wisconsin Rapids August 6, Lesleigh Luttrell asked me whether I'd like to take a look at the Grim Natwick Hollywood Archives Exhibit at the South Wood County Historical Museum, 540 Third Street South. Well, heck, yes!

The exhibits on Natwick (1890-1990) were fascinating, displaying Natwick's art on song sheets and on a paper manufacturer's magazine as well as a terrific exhibit of his animation art. Natwick's animation years included work for Ub Iwerks, Walt Disney, Walter Lantz, UPA, and Richard Williams. He was a lead animator on Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and drew the prince and princess for Fleischer's Gulliver's Travels.

A highlight of the event was the dedication of a Wisconsin Historical Marker honoring Natwick: an event attended by Natwick relatives still living in Wisconsin Rapids. The photo above includes John Natwick (second from left, nephew of the animator) and Jim Natwick (right, a great-nephew).

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