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Mellon Dinner, 4/27/89
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REMARKS: ANDREW MELLON DINNER
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 1989
9:45 P.M.
TRUSTEES OF THE NATIONAL GALLERY, MEMBERS OF THE
CABINET, MEMBERS OF THE CONGRESS, DISTINGUISHED GUESTS.
THANK YOU FOR THAT INTRODUCTION, AND FOR YOUR
GENEROUS WELCOME. AND I WANT TO SAY WHAT A PRIVILEGE
IT IS TO JOIN YOU THIS EVENING.
- 2 -
((IN PARTICULAR, LET ME SAY A WORD ABOUT THIS
DISTINGUISHED AUDIENCE. I HAVEN'T SEEN so MANY PEOPLE
so WELL DRESSED SINCE I WENT TO A COME-AS-YOU-ARE PARTY
IN KENNEBUNKPORT.))
WE GATHER, YOU AND I, IN AMERICA'S CATHEDRAL OF THE
ARTS. AND WE MEET TO SALUTE AN AMERICAN ART COLLECTOR,
PHILANTHROPIST, FINANCIER, AND PUBLIC SERVANT.
IN THAT CONNECTION, I WANT TO SAY A SPECIAL THANKS
TO PAUL MELLON.
- 3 -
HIS GENEROSITY HAS HELPED CREATE THIS PRICELESS
GALLERY. AND AS A LONGTIME WASHINGTONIAN, HE, AS MUCH
AS ANYONE, WILL RECALL HARRY TRUMAN'S FAMOUS QUOTE:
"IF YOU WANT A FRIEND IN WASHINGTON, GET A DOG."
WELL, THIS GALLERY ALREADY HAS A WONDERFUL FRIEND:
THE FAMILY OF PAUL AND ANDREW MELLON. AND, TODAY, THAT
FAMILY IS MAKING NEW FRIENDS FOR ART ACROSS THE UNITED
STATES OF AMERICA.
- 4 -
WE SEE THOSE FRIENDS WITHIN THESE HALLS. IN THE
EYES OF A LITTLE GIRL, ENTRANCED BY THE MAGIC OF DEGAS'
((DAY-GAHZ)) FOUR DANCERS. OR THE SMILE OF THE ELDERLY
WOMAN WHO FINDS SOLACE IN COLE'S VOYAGE OF LIFE. OR
THE TWO ART STUDENTS WHO DEBATE, NOT ALWAYS QUIETLY,
JACKSON POLLOCK'S ((POL-UCK)) LAVENDER MIST. To THEM
-- TO US -- THESE WORKS SPAN THE GENERATIONS. FOR ART
IS TIMELESS; IT ENHANCES THE GENTLER IMPULSES OF
MANKIND.
- 5 -
IN AN ABIDING SENSE, ANDREW MELLON EMBODIED THOSE
IMPULSES. YES, HE DID WELL -- OUR SECOND-LONGEST-
SERVING SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY; A MAN OF ENORMOUS
WEALTH AND POWER. BUT, MORE IMPORTANTLY, LET US
REMEMBER: HE ALSO DID GOOD.
YES, SHY AND SOFT-VOICED, ANDREW MELLON WAS MODEST,
UNASSUMING. BUT FEW MEN HAVE CONTRIBUTED MORE TO
AMERICA'S CULTURAL QUALITY OF LIFE.
- 6 -
To THIS CAPTAIN OF INDUSTRY, PHILANTHROPY SPOKE OF
JUSTICE, INVOLVEMENT, AND LOVE OF COUNTRY. FOR HE
BELIEVED CHARITY TO BE AMONG THE HIGHEST PLANES OF
PATRIOTISM. ABOVE ALL, ANDREW MELLON KNEW THAT WE ARE
A NATION, AND A FAMILY. AND FIFTY-TWO YEARS AGO, HE
DONATED HIS COLLECTION, AND BUILT THIS BUILDING, FOR
US, AS MEMBERS OF THAT FAMILY.
- 7 -
TODAY, MORE THAN EVER, THIS COLLECTION REMAINS
AMERICA'S FAMILY HEIRLOOM. AND IT SHOWS TOO THAT IN
JUDGING ART, BELIEVE ME, EVERYONE'S AN EXPERT.
W.W. WOOLLCOTT RHYMED, FOR INSTANCE: "IN PART I
PULL NO HIGHBROW STUFF; I KNOW WHAT I LIKE, AND THAT'S
ENOUGH."
LESS LYRIC, BUT MORE ACERBIC, WAS MARK TWAIN.
- 8 -
ONE HUNDRED AND TEN YEARS AGO, HE OBSERVED, "IF THE OLD
MASTERS HAD LABELED THEIR FRUIT, ONE WOULDN'T BE so
LIKELY TO MISTAKE PEARS FOR TURNIPS."
AND, FINALLY, LET ME RECALL HOW A KINDERGARTEN
TEACHER ONCE CONDUCTED A PSYCHOLOGICAL TEST. How? BY
SETTING HER STUDENTS TO WORK CARVING SOAP.
"WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON?" SHE ASKED ONE STUDENT.
"A PANDA," THE CHILD REPLIED. A SECOND GIRL RESPONDED,
"DoG."
- 9 -
WELL, FINALLY, THE TEACHER CAME TO A LAD WHOSE WORK
DEFIED DESCRIPTION. "WHAT'S THIS?" SHE ASKED. "SOAP
FLAKES," SAID HE.
SEE WHAT I MEAN? WHEN IT COMES TO ART, LIKE
POLITICS, THERE'S NO MISTAKING OUR OPINIONS. WELL,
WHEN IT COMES TO THE MELLON COLLECTION, THERE'S NO
MISTAKING AMERICA'S OPINION.
ANDREW MELLON NEVER LIVED TO SEE THE DEDICATION OF
THIS BUILDING. BUT HIS SPIRIT LIVES TODAY.
- 10 -
IT REAFFIRMS AMERICA'S DECENCY AND KINDNESS. AND IT
CELEBRATES WHAT FRANKLIN ROOSEVELT, DEDICATING THIS
GALLERY, TERMED "THE RELATION BETWEEN THE WHOLE PEOPLE
OF THIS COUNTRY, AND THE OLD INHERITED TRADITION OF THE
ARTS."
Mr FRIENDS, TO ENHANCE OUR COUNTRY AND ENNOBLE THAT
TRADITION -- THIS IS OUR CONTINUING MISSION AS
AMERICANS.
- 11 -
So LET US MEET IT, AND THEREBY HONOR ANDREW MELLON.
AND LET US HELP ART ENRICH AMERICA -- so THAT AMERICA
CAN ENRICH THE WORLD.
THANK YOU FOR INVITING ME, AND FOR THIS WONDERFUL
EVENING. GOD BLESS YOU, AND GOD BLESS AMERICA.
# # #
Document No. 02806/ 55
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
---
DATE:
04/20/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MELLON DINNER
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
\
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
>
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
1
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
I
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
1
ROGERS
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
\
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
The attached was forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
20
April 20, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
CURT SMITH is
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON
N
SUBJECT:
ANDREW MELLON DINNER REMARKS
I. SUMMARY
On Thursday, April 27, you will address the fourth Andrew
Mellon Dinner in the Rotunda of the National Gallery of Art,
West Building. You will speak after dinner. The audience
will consist mainly of several hundred past and prospective
donors of art to the museum.
II. DISCUSSION
The text contains references, humorous and serious, to
Andrew Mellon's career, with special emphasis on his
philanthropy. It focuses on his life and legacy as a
humanitarian, and his contributions to art.
(Smith/Simon)
4/20/89; 6:30 pm
Draft Four
MEL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ANDREW MELLON DINNER
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 1989
Trustees of the National Gallery, Members of the Cabinet,
Members of the Congress, Distinguished Guests.
Thank you for that introduction, and for your generous
welcome. And I want to say what a privilege it is to join you
this evening.
((In particular, let me say a word about this distinguished
audience. I haven't seen so many people so well dressed since I
went to a come-as-you-are party in Kennebunkport.)
We gather, you and I, in America's cathedral of the arts.
And we meet to salute an American art collector, philanthropist,
financier, and public servant.
In that connection, I want to say a special thanks to Paul
Mellon. His generosity has helped create this priceless Gallery.
And he, as much as anyone, will recall how in his father's final
year as Secretary of the Treasury, an apocryphal tale gained
popular currency.
2
One day, the story went, Andrew Mellon was walking down the
street with President Hoover. Suddenly, the President stopped.
"Andy," he said, "I came out this morning without a cent in my
pocket. Lend me a nickel, will you? I want to call up a
friend."
With that, Andrew Mellon paused and reached into his pocket.
"Here's a dime," he said. "Call up both of them."
Well, Andrew Mellon was a friend of art. And, today, he is
making new friends for art across the United States of America.
We see those friends within these halls. In the eyes of a
little girl, entranced by the magic of Degas' [Day-GAHS] Four
Dancers. or the smile of the elderly woman who finds solace in
Cole's Voyage of Life. or the two art students who debate, not
always quietly, Jackson Pollock's Lavender Mist. To them -- to
us -- these works span the generations. For art is timeless; it
enhances the gentler impulses of mankind.
In an abiding sense, Andrew Mellon embodied those impulses.
Yes, he did well -- our second-longest-serving Secretary of the
Treasury; a man of enormous wealth and power. But, more
importantly, let us remember: He also did good.
3
Yes, shy and soft-voiced, Andrew Mellon was modest,
unassuming. But few men have contributed more to America's
cultural quality of life.
To this captain of industry, philanthropy spoke of justice,
involvement, and love of country. For he believed charity to be
among the highest planes of patriotism. Above all, Andrew Mellon
knew that we are a nation, and a family. And fifty-two years
ago, he donated his collection, and built this building, for us,
as members of that family.
Today, more than ever, this collection remains America's
family heirloom. And it shows too that in judging art, believe
me, everyone's an expert.
W.W. Woollcott rhymed, for instance: "In part I pull no
highbrow stuff; I know what I like, and that's enough."
Less lyric, but more acerbic, was Mark Twain. One hundred
and ten years ago, he observed, "If the old masters had labeled
their fruit, one wouldn't be so likely to mistake pears for
turnips."
And, finally, let me recall how a kindergarten teacher once
conducted a psychological test. How? By setting her students to
work carving soap.
4
"What are you working on?" she asked one student. "A
panda," the child replied. A second girl responded, "Dog."
Well, finally, the teacher came to a lad whose work defied
description. "What's this?" she asked. "Soap flakes," said he.
See what I mean? When it comes to art, like politics,
there's no mistaking our opinions. Well, when it comes to the
Mellon Collection, there's no mistaking America's opinion.
Andrew Mellon never lived to see the dedication of this
building. But his spirit lives today. It reaffirms America's
decency and kindness. And it celebrates what Franklin Roosevelt,
dedicating this gallery, termed "the relation between the whole
people of this country, and the old inherited tradition of the
arts."
My friends, to enhance our country and ennoble that
tradition -- this is our continuing mission as Americans. So let
us meet it, and thereby honor Andrew Mellon. And let us help art
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Thank you for inviting me, and for this wonderful evening.
God bless you, and God bless America.
# # # #
Document No. 028061
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
4/19/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
COB 4/20/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MELLON DINNER
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
P
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
McBride
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by close of business
Thursday, April 20. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Simon)
1983 APD 19 11102
April 18, 1989
Draft Three
MEL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MELLON DINNER
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
APRIL 27, 1989
Trustees of the National Gallery, Members of the Cabinet,
Members of the Congress, Distinguished Guests.
Thank you for that introduction, and for your generous
welcome. And I want to say what a privilege it is to join you
for this occasion.
Woodes allen
In particular, let me say a word about my traveling
n
companion sea I refer, of course, to Barbara. I can testify
that the Silver Fox wouldn't have missed this evening for all the
paintings in the universe. After all, it was Andrew Mellon who
observed that "Gentlemen prefer bonds."
We gather tonight in America's cathedral of the arts. And
we meet to salute an American art collector, philanthropist,
financier, and public servant.
In that connection, I want to say a special thanks to Paul
Mellon. His generosity has helped create this priceless Gallery.
And he, as much as anyone, will recall how in Herbert Hoover's
-2-
final year as President, a whimsical tale gained popular
currency.
One day, the story went, Hoover was walking down the street
with his Secretary of the Treasury. Suddenly, the President
stopped. "Andy," he said, "I came out this morning without a
cent in my pocket. Lend me a nickel, will you? I want to call
up a friend."
With that, Andrew Mellon paused and reached into his pocket.
"Here's a dime," he said. "Call up both of them.' "
Well, Andrew Mellon was a friend of art. And, today, he is
making new friends for art across the United States of America.
We see those friends within these halls. In the eyes of a
little girl, entranced by the magic of Degas' [Day-GAHS] Four
Dancers. Or the smile of the elderly woman who finds solace in
Cole's Voyage of Life. Or the two art students who debate, not
always quietly, Jackson Pollock's Lavendar Mist. To them -- to
us -- these works span the generations. For art is timeless; it
enhances the gentler impulses of mankind.
In an abiding sense, Andrew Mellon embodied those impulses.
adedicated the longest serving
Yes, he did well -- among our greatest Secretaries of the
Treasury; a man of enormous wealth and power. But, more
importantly, let us remember: He also did good.
-3-
Yes, shy and soft-voiced, Andrew Mellon was modest,
contributed
cultural
unassuming. But few men have 1 done more to make Americasa better,
quality of life
more decent place.
To this captain of industry, philanthropy spoke of justice,
involvement, and love of country. For he believed charity to be
among the highest planes of patriotism. Above all, Andrew Mellon
knew that we are a nation, and a family. And fifty-two years
ago, he donated his collection, and built this building, for us,
as members of that family.
Today, more than ever, this collection remains America's
family heirloom. And it shows too that in judging art, believe
me, everyone's an expert.
W.W. Woolcott rhymed, for instance: "In part I pull no
highbrow stuff; I know what I like, and that's enough."
Less lyric, but more acerbic, was Mark Twain.
years
ago, he observed, "If the old masters had labeled their fruit,
one wouldn't be so likely to mistake pears for turnips."
And, finally, let me recall how a kindergarten teacher once
conducted a psychological test. How? By setting her students to
work carving soap.
-4-
"What are you working on?" she asked one student. "A
panda," the child replied. A second girl responded, "Dog."
Well, finally, the teacher came to a lad whose work defied
description. "What's this?" she asked. "Soap flakes," said he.
See what I mean? When it comes to art, like politics,
there's no mistaking our opinions. Well, when it comes to the
Mellon Collection, there's no mistaking America's opinion.
Andrew Mellon never lived to see the dedication of this
building. But his spirit lives today. It reaffirms America's
decency and kindness. And it celebrates what Franklin Roosevelt,
dedicating this gallery, termed "the relation between the whole
people of this country, and the old inherited tradition of the
arts."
My friends, to enhance our country and ennoble that
tradition this is our continuing mission as Americans. So let
us meet it, and thereby honor Andrew Mellon. And let us help art
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Thank you for inviting me, and for this wonderful evening.
God bless you, and God bless America.
# # # #
#522
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
EMBARGOED FOR RELEASE
UNTIL 9:00 P.M. EDT
THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 1989
TEXT OF REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
ANDREW MELLON DINNER
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
WASHINGTON, DC
April 27, 1989
We gather in America's cathedral of the arts. And we meet to
salute an American art collector, philanthropist, financier, and
public servant.
In that connection, I want to say a special thanks to Paul
Mellon. His generosity has helped create this priceless Gallery.
And he, as much as anyone, will recall how in his father's final
year as Secretary of the Treasury, an apocryphal tale gained
popular currency.
One day, the story went, Andrew Mellon was walking down the
street with President Hoover. Suddenly, the President stopped.
"Andy," he said, "I came out this morning without a cent in my
pocket. Lend me a nickel, will you? I want to call up a
friend." With that, Andrew Mellon paused and reached into his
pocket. "Here's a dime, he said. "Call up both of them."
Andrew Mellon was a friend of art. And, today, he is making new
friends for art across the United States of America. We see
those friends within these halls. In the eyes of a little girl
entranced by the magic of Degas' Four Dancers; or the smile of
the elderly woman who finds solace in Cole's Voyage of Life; or
the two art students who debate, not always quietly, Jackson
Pollock's Lavender Mist. To them -- to us -- these works span
the generations. For art is timeless; it enhances the gentler
impulses of mankind.
- more -
- 2 -
In an abiding sense, Andrew Mellon embodied those impulses. Yes,
he did well our second-longest-serving Secretary of the
Treasury; a man of enormous wealth and power. But, more
importantly, let us remember: He also did good. Yes, shy and
soft-voiced, Andrew Mellon was modest, unassuming. But few men
have contributed more to America's cultural quality of life.
To this captain of industry, philanthropy spoke of justice,
involvement, and love of country. For he believed charity to be
among the highest planes of patriotism. Above all, Andrew Mellon
knew that we are a nation, and a family. And fifty-two years
ago, he donated his collection, and built this building, for us,
as members of that family.
Today, more than ever, this collection remains America's family
heirloom. And it shows too that in judging art everyone's an
expert. W.W. Woollcott rhymed, for instance: "In part I pull no
highbrow stuff; I know what I like, and that's enough." Less
lyric, but more acerbic, was Mark Twain. One hundred and ten
years ago, he observed, "If the old masters had labeled their
fruit, one wouldn't be SO likely to mistake pears for turnips."
And, finally, let me recall how a kindergarten teacher once
conducted a psychological test. How? By setting her students to
work carving soap. "What are you working on?" she asked one
student. "A panda," the child replied. A second girl responded,
"Dog." Finally, the teacher came to a lad whose work defied
description. "What's this?" she asked. "Soap flakes," said he.
See what I mean? When it comes to art, like politics, there's no
mistaking our opinions. Well, when it comes to the Mellon
Collection, there's no mistaking America's opinion.
Andrew Mellon never lived to see the dedication of this building;
but his spirit lives today. It reaffirms America's decency and
kindness. It celebrates what Franklin Roosevelt, dedicating this
gallery, termed "the relation between the whole people of this
country, and the old inherited tradition of the arts." To
enhance our country and ennoble. that tradition, this is our
continuing mission as Americans. So let us meet it, and thereby
honor Andrew Mellon. And let us help art enrich America -- so
that America can enrich the world.
# # #
(Smith/Simon)
4/20/89; 6:30 pm
Draft Four
MEL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ANDREW MELLON DINNER
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 1989
Trustees of the National Gallery, Members of the Cabinet,
Members of the Congress, Distinguished Guests.
Thank you for that introduction, and for your generous
welcome. And I want to say what a privilege it is to join you
this evening.
( (In particular, let me say a word about this distinguished
audience. I haven't seen SO many people SO well dressed since I
went to a come-as-you-are party in Kennebunkport.) )
We gather, you and I, in America's cathedral of the arts.
And we meet to salute an American art collector, philanthropist,
financier, and public servant.
In that connection, I want to say a special thanks to Paul
Mellon. His generosity has helped create this priceless Gallery.
And as a longtime Washingtonian, he, as much as anyone, will
recall Harry Truman's famous quote: "If you want a friend in
Washington, get a dog."
2
Well, this Gallery already has a wonderful friend: the
family of Paul and Andrew Mellon. And, today, that family is
making new friends for art across the United States of America.
We see those friends within these halls. In the eyes of a
little girl, entranced by the magic of Degas' [Day-GAHS] Four
Dancers. Or the smile of the elderly woman who finds solace in
Cole's Voyage of Life. Or the two art students who debate, not
always quietly, Jackson Pollock's Lavender Mist. To them -- to
us -- these works span the generations. For art is timeless; it
enhances the gentler impulses of mankind.
In an abiding sense, Andrew Mellon embodied those impulses.
Yes, he did well -- our second-longest-serving Secretary of the
Treasury; a man of enormous wealth and power. But, more
importantly, let us remember: He also did good.
Yes, shy and soft-voiced, Andrew Mellon was modest,
unassuming. But few men have contributed more to America's
cultural quality of life.
To this captain of industry, philanthropy spoke of justice,
involvement, and love of country. For he believed charity to be
among the highest planes of patriotism. Above all, Andrew Mellon
knew that we are a nation, and a family. And fifty-two years
3
ago, he donated his collection, and built this building, for us,
as members of that family.
Today, more than ever, this collection remains America's
family heirloom. And it shows too that in judging art, believe
me, everyone's an expert.
W.W. Woollcott rhymed, for instance: "In part I pull no
highbrow stuff; I know what I like, and that's enough."
Less lyric, but more acerbic, was Mark Twain. One hundred
and ten years ago, he observed, "If the old masters had labeled
their fruit, one wouldn't be so likely to mistake pears for
turnips."
And, finally, let me recall how a kindergarten teacher once
conducted a psychological test. How? By setting her students to
work carving soap.
"What are you working on?" she asked one student. "A
panda," the child replied. A second girl responded, "Dog."
Well, finally, the teacher came to a lad whose work defied
description. "What's this?" she asked. "Soap flakes," said he.
4
See what I mean? When it comes to art, like politics,
there's no mistaking our opinions. Well, when it comes to the
Mellon Collection, there's no mistaking America's opinion.
Andrew Mellon never lived to see the dedication of this
building. But his spirit lives today. It reaffirms America's
decency and kindness. And it celebrates what Franklin Roosevelt,
dedicating this gallery, termed "the relation between the whole
people of this country, and the old inherited tradition of the
arts."
My friends, to enhance our country and ennoble that
tradition -- this is our continuing mission as Americans. So let
us meet it, and thereby honor Andrew Mellon. And let us help art
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Thank you for inviting me, and for this wonderful evening.
God bless you, and God bless America.
# # # #
(Smith/Simon)
4/26/89; 6:30 pm
Draft Four
MEL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ANDREW MELLON DINNER
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 1989
Trustees of the National Gallery, Members of the Cabinet,
Members of the Congress, Distinguished Guests.
Thank you for that introduction, and for your generous
welcome. And I want to say what a privilege it is to join you
this evening.
( (In particular, let me say a word about this distinguished
audience. I haven't seen so many people so well dressed since I
went to a come-as-you-are party in Kennebunkport. ))
We gather, you and I, in America's cathedral of the arts.
And we meet to salute an American art collector, philanthropist,
financier, and public servant.
In that connection, I want to say a special thanks to Paul
Mellon. His generosity has helped create this priceless Gallery.
And as a longtime Washingtonian, he, as much as anyone, will
recall Harry Truman's famous quote: "If you want a friend in
Washington, get a dog."
2
Well, this Gallery already has a wonderful friend: the
family of Paul and Andrew Mellon. And, today, that family is
making new friends for art across the United States of America.
We see those friends within these halls. In the eyes of a
little girl, entranced by the magic of Degas' [Day-GAHS] Four
Dancers. Or the smile of the elderly woman who finds solace in
Cole's Voyage of Life. Or the two art students who debate, not
always quietly, Jackson Pollock's Lavender Mist. To them -- to
us -- these works span the generations. For art is timeless; it
enhances the gentler impulses of mankind.
In an abiding sense, Andrew Mellon embodied those impulses.
Yes, he did well -- our second-longest-serving Secretary of the
Treasury; a man of enormous wealth and power. But, more
importantly, let us remember: He also did good.
Yes, shy and soft-voiced, Andrew Mellon was modest,
unassuming. But few men have contributed more to America's
cultural quality of life.
To this captain of industry, philanthropy spoke of justice,
involvement, and love of country. For he believed charity to be
among the highest planes of patriotism. Above all, Andrew Mellon
knew that we are a nation, and a family. And fifty-two years
3
ago, he donated his collection, and built this building, for us,
as members of that family.
Today, more than ever, this collection remains America's
family heirloom. And it shows too that in judging art, believe
me, everyone's an expert.
W.W. Woollcott rhymed, for instance: "In part I pull no
highbrow stuff; I know what I like, and that's enough."
Less lyric, but more acerbic, was Mark Twain. One hundred
and ten years ago, he observed, "If the old masters had labeled
their fruit, one wouldn't be so likely to mistake pears for
turnips."
And, finally, let me recall how a kindergarten teacher once
conducted a psychological test. How? By setting her students to
work carving soap.
"What are you working on?" she asked one student. "A
panda," the child replied. A second girl responded, "Dog."
Well, finally, the teacher came to a lad whose work defied
description. "What's this?" she asked. "Soap flakes," said he.
4
See what I mean? When it comes to art, like politics,
there's no mistaking our opinions. Well, when it comes to the
Mellon Collection, there's no mistaking America's opinion.
Andrew Mellon never lived to see the dedication of this
building. But his spirit lives today. It reaffirms America's
decency and kindness. And it celebrates what Franklin Roosevelt,
dedicating this gallery, termed "the relation between the whole
people of this country, and the old inherited tradition of the
arts."
My friends, to enhance our country and ennoble that
tradition -- this is our continuing mission as Americans. So let
us meet it, and thereby honor Andrew Mellon. And let us help art
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Thank you for inviting me, and for this wonderful evening.
God bless you, and God bless America.
#
#
#
#
Document No. 028041
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
4/19/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
COB 4/20/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MELLON DINNER
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
\
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
P
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
WINSTON
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
1
PINKERTON
CICCONI
1
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by close of business
Thursday, April 20. Thank you.
no comments
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 20, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
CURT SMITH
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON
in
SUBJECT:
ANDREW MELLON DINNER REMARKS
I. SUMMARY
On Thursday, April 27, you will address the fourth Andrew
Mellon Dinner in the Rotunda of the National Gallery of Art,
West Building. You will speak after dinner. The audience
will consist mainly of several hundred past and prospective
donors of art to the museum.
II. DISCUSSION
The text contains references, humorous and serious, to
Andrew Mellon's career, with special emphasis on his
philanthropy. It focuses on his life and legacy as a
humanitarian, and his contributions to art.
(Smith/Simon)
4/20/89; 6:30 pm
Draft Four
MEL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ANDREW MELLON DINNER
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 1989
Trustees of the National Gallery, Members of the Cabinet,
Members of the Congress, Distinguished Guests.
Thank you for that introduction, and for your generous
welcome. And I want to say what a privilege it is to join you
this evening.
((In particular, let me say a word about this distinguished
audience. I haven't seen so many people so well dressed since I
went to a come-as-you-are party in Kennebunkport.) )
We gather, you and I, in America's cathedral of the arts.
And we meet to salute an American art collector, philanthropist,
financier, and public servant.
In that connection, I want to say a special thanks to Paul
Mellon. His generosity has helped create this priceless Gallery.
And he, as much as anyone, will recall how in his father's final
year as Secretary of the Treasury, an apocryphal tale gained
popular currency.
2
One day, the story went, Andrew Mellon was walking down the
street with President Hoover. Suddenly, the President stopped.
"Andy," he said, "I came out this morning without a cent in my
pocket. Lend me a nickel, will you? I want to call up a
friend."
With that, Andrew Mellon paused and reached into his pocket.
"Here's a dime," he said. "Call up both of them."
Well, Andrew Mellon was a friend of art. And, today, he is
making new friends for art across the United States of America.
We see those friends within these halls. In the eyes of a
little girl, entranced by the magic of Degas' [Day-GAHS] Four
Dancers. or the smile of the elderly woman who finds solace in
Cole's Voyage of Life. Or the two art students who debate, not
always quietly, Jackson Pollock's Lavender Mist. To them -- to
us -- these works span the generations. For art is timeless; it
enhances the gentler impulses of mankind.
In an abiding sense, Andrew Mellon embodied those impulses.
Yes, he did well -- our second-longest-serving Secretary of the
Treasury; a man of enormous wealth and power. But, more
importantly, let us remember: He also did good.
3
Yes, shy and soft-voiced, Andrew Mellon was modest,
unassuming. But few men have contributed more to America's
cultural quality of life.
To this captain of industry, philanthropy spoke of justice,
involvement, and love of country. For he believed charity to be
among the highest planes of patriotism. Above all, Andrew Mellon
knew that we are a nation, and a family. And fifty-two years
ago, he donated his collection, and built this building, for us,
as members of that family.
Today, more than ever, this collection remains America's
family heirloom. And it shows too that in judging art, believe
me, everyone's an expert.
W.W. Woollcott rhymed, for instance: "In part I pull no
highbrow stuff; I know what I like, and that's enough."
Less lyric, but more acerbic, was Mark Twain. One hundred
and ten years ago, he observed, "If the old masters had labeled
their fruit, one wouldn't be so likely to mistake pears for
turnips."
And, finally, let me recall how a kindergarten teacher once
conducted a psychological test. How? By setting her students to
work carving soap.
4
"What are you working on?" she asked one student. "A
panda," the child replied. A second girl responded, "Dog."
Well, finally, the teacher came to a lad whose work defied
description. "What's this?" she asked. "Soap flakes," said he.
See what I mean? When it comes to art, like politics,
there's no mistaking our opinions. Well, when it comes to the
Mellon Collection, there's no mistaking America's opinion.
Andrew Mellon never lived to see the dedication of this
building. But his spirit lives today. It reaffirms America's
decency and kindness. And it celebrates what Franklin Roosevelt,
dedicating this gallery, termed "the relation between the whole
people of this country, and the old inherited tradition of the
arts."
My friends, to enhance our country and ennoble that
tradition -- this is our continuing mission as Americans. So let
us meet it, and thereby honor Andrew Mellon. And let us help art
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Thank you for inviting me, and for this wonderful evening.
God bless you, and God bless America.
# # # #
Document No. 028061
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
4/19/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
COB 4/20/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MELLON DINNER
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
P
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMARES
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by close of business
Thursday, April 20. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
good!
AX
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Simon)
1933 APR 19
April 18, 1989
Draft Three
MEL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MELLON DINNER
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
APRIL 27, 1989
Trustees of the National Gallery, Members of the Cabinet,
Members of the Congress, Distinguished Guests.
Thank you for that introduction, and for your generous
welcome. And I want to say what a privilege it is to join you
for this occasion.
In particular, let me say a word about my traveling
companion I refer, of course to Barbara I can testify
that the Silver Fox wouldn' t have missed this evening for all the
paintings in the universe. After all it was Andrew Mellon who
observed that "Gentlemen prefer bonds. "
We gather tonight in America's cathedral of the arts. And
we meet to salute an American art collector, philanthropist,
financier, and public servant.
In that connection, I want to say a special thanks to Paul
Mellon. His generosity has helped create this priceless Gallery.
And he, as much as anyone, will recall how in Herbert Hoover'
P
-2-
final year as President, a whimsical tale gained popular
currency.
One day, the story went, Hoover was walking down the street
with his Secretary of the Treasury. Suddenly, the President
stopped. "Andy," he said, "I came out this morning without a
cent in my pocket. Lend me a nickel, will you? I want to call
up a friend."
With that, Andrew Mellon paused and reached into his pocket.
"Here's a dime," he said. "Call up both of them."
Well, Andrew Mellon was a friend of art. And, today, he is
making new friends for art across the United States of America.
We see those friends within these halls. In the eyes of a
little girl, entranced by the magic of Degas' [Day-GAHS] Four
Dancers. Or the smile of the elderly woman who finds solace in
Cole's Voyage of Life. Or the two art students who debate, not
always quietly, Jackson Pollock's Lavendar Mist. To them -- to
us -- these works span the generations. For art is timeless; it
enhances the gentler impulses of mankind.
In an abiding sense, Andrew Mellon embodied those impulses.
Yes, he did well -- among our greatest Secretari $ of the
Treasury; a man of enormous wealth and power. But, more
importantly, let us remember: He also did good.
-3-
Yes, shy and soft-voiced, Andrew Mellon was modest,
unassuming. But few men have done more to make America a better,
more decent place.
Dn her withes to mac
Am
I
Aricis arrisic
quality onlife. or
To this captain of industry, philanthropy spoke of justice,
involvement, and love of country. For he believed charity to be
among the highest planes of patriotism. Above all, Andrew Mellon
knew that we are a nation, and a family. And fifty-two years
ago, he donated his collection, and built this building, for us,
as members of that family.
Today, more than ever, this collection remains America's
family heirloom. And it shows too that in judging art, believe
me, everyone's an expert.
W.W. Woolcott rhymed, for instance: "In part I pull no
highbrow stuff; I know what I like, and that's enough."
Less lyric, but more acerbic, was Mark Twain.
years
ago, he observed, "If the old masters had labeled their fruit,
one wouldn't be so likely to mistake pears for turnips."
And, finally, let me recall how a kindergarten teacher once
conducted a psychological test. How? By setting her students to
work carving soap.
-4-
"What are you working on?" she asked one student. "A
panda," the child replied. A second girl responded, "Dog."
Well, finally, the teacher came to a lad whose work defied
description. "What's this?" she asked. "Soap flakes," said he.
See what I mean? When it comes to art, like politics,
there's no mistaking our opinions. Well, when it comes to the
Mellon Collection, there's no mistaking America's opinion.
Andrew Mellon never lived to see the dedication of this
building. But his spirit lives today. It reaffirms America's
decency and kindness. And it celebrates what Franklin Roosevelt,
dedicating this gallery, termed "the relation between the whole
people of this country, and the old inherited tradition of the
arts."
My friends, to enhance our country and ennoble that
tradition -- this is our continuing mission as Americans. So let
us meet it, and thereby honor Andrew Mellon. And let us help art
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Thank you for inviting me, and for this wonderful evening.
God bless you, and God bless America.
# # # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 19, 1989
Memorandum for Chriss Winston
From:
Jim Pinkertor P
Subject:
Mellon Draft
This draft is fine as long as it talks about Degas, Wolcott,
and Twain.
However, it goes seriously awry when it ventures into Andrew
Mellon's career at the Treasury. Let's recall that Mellon was
the Treasury Secretary who presided over the Depression, which is
not a laughing matter to most Americans.
I am fully aware of the revisionist argument that Mellon was
a tax rate-cutting supply-sider whose policies fueled the boom of
the 20's. However, whatever the exact causation, there is no
denying the fact that the Crash and the Depression also occurred
on Mellon's "watch." I am really afraid that someone who
remembers the period, like Arthur Schlesinger Jr., will get wind
of this speech, if it is given as is, and rip us for being
ahistorical at best and insensitive at worst.
Therefore, the joke on page 2 about the nickels, while
admittedly funny, is simply not appropriate. George Bush, a
Republican president speaking at a white tie event, simply cannot
speak next Thursday night about "a whimsical tale [that] gained
popular currency" in the final year of the Hoover presidency.
We're talking about 1932, when unemployment stood at 25%, when
the Bonus Army was camped on the Mall, and when children were
starving in the Dust Bowl.
Having said that, there's still no point in gratuitously
dumping on former President Hoover. What did he do to become the
butt of our jokes? Say nothing ill of the dead, especially GOP
predecessors in the White House! Let's leave Hoover, the
Depression, and Mellon's career at Treasury out of this. Let's
focus on his life as a philanthropist, about which there is no
argument.
(more)
2-2-2
Thus I would not therefore refer to him, as we do on the
third-to-last line of page two, as "among our greatest
Secretaries of the Treasury." Nor would I say, "few men have
done more to make America a better, more decent place." I would
focus on him as a person, his generosity, and his commitment to
culture.
#
CC: Roger Porter/Brad Mitchell
Bill Roper
John Gardner
Document No. 028061
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
TIM
DATE:
4/19/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
COB 4/20/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MELLON DINNER
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
P
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
ROGERS
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by close of business
Thursday, April 20. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Chin -
just a couple
James W. Cicconi
of commits.
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
Tim McB
(Smith/Simon)
1933 APR 19 11:13:2
April 18, 1989
Draft Three
MEL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MELLON DINNER
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
APRIL 27, 1989
Trustees of the National Gallery, Members of the Cabinet,
Members of the Congress, Distinguished Guests.
Thank you for that introduction, and for your generous
welcome. And I want to say what a privilege it is to join you
for this occasion.
Chris The President has leave not it been out using
this often. I would TM
very of prepared remarks
In particular, let me say a word about my traveling
not sure & cl use
companion
"traveling
I refer, of course, to Barbara. I can testify
companism
that the Silver Fox wouldn't have missed this evening for all the
TM
paintings in the universe. After all, it was Andrew Mellon who
observed that "Gentlemen prefer bonds."
We gather tonight in America's cathedral of the arts. And
we meet to salute an American art collector, philanthropist,
financier, and public servant.
In that connection, I want to say a special thanks to Paul
Mellon. His generosity has helped create this priceless Gallery.
And he, as much as anyone, will recall how in Herbert Hoover's
-2-
final year as President, a whimsical tale gained popular
currency.
One day, the story went, Hoover was walking down the street
with his Secretary of the Treasury. Suddenly, the President
stopped. "Andy," he said, "I came out this morning without a
cent in my pocket. Lend me a nickel, will you? I want to call
up a friend."
With that, Andrew Mellon paused and reached into his pocket.
"Here's a dime," he said. "Call up both of them.
Well, Andrew Mellon was a friend of art. And, today, he is
making new friends for art across the United States of America.
We see those friends within these halls. In the eyes of a
little girl, entranced by the magic of Degas' [Day-GAHS] Four
Dancers. Or the smile of the elderly woman who finds solace in
Cole's Voyage of Life. Or the two art students who debate, not
always quietly, Jackson Pollock's Lavendar Mist. To them -- to
us -- these works span the generations. For art is timeless; it
enhances the gentler impulses of mankind.
In an abiding sense, Andrew Mellon embodied those impulses.
Yes, he did well -- among our greatest Secretaries of the
Treasury; a man of enormous wealth and power. But, more
importantly, let us remember: He also did good.
-3-
Yes, shy and soft-voiced, Andrew Mellon was modest,
unassuming. But few men have done more to make America a better,
more decent place.
To this captain of industry, philanthropy spoke of justice,
involvement, and love of country. For he believed charity to be
among the highest planes of patriotism. Above all, Andrew Mellon
knew that we are a nation, and a family. And fifty-two years
ago, he donated his collection, and built this building, for us,
as members of that family.
Today, more than ever, this collection remains America's
family heirloom. And it shows too that in judging art, believe
me, everyone's an expert.
W.W. Woolcott rhymed, for instance: "In part I pull no
highbrow stuff; I know what I like, and that's enough."
Less lyric, but more acerbic, was Mark Twain.
years
ago, he observed, "If the old masters had labeled their fruit,
one wouldn't be so likely to mistake pears for turnips."
And, finally, let me recall how a kindergarten teacher once
conducted a psychological test. How? By setting her students to
work carving soap.
-4-
"What are you working on?" she asked one student. "A
panda," the child replied. A second girl responded, "Dog."
Well, finally, the teacher came to a lad whose work defied
description. "What's this?" she asked. "Soap flakes," said he.
See what I mean? When it comes to art, like politics,
there's no mistaking our opinions. Well, when it comes to the
Mellon Collection, there's no mistaking America's opinion.
Andrew Mellon never lived to see the dedication of this
building. But his spirit lives today. It reaffirms America's
decency and kindness. And it celebrates what Franklin Roosevelt,
dedicating this gallery, termed "the relation between the whole
people of this country, and the old inherited tradition of the
arts."
My friends, to enhance our country and ennoble that
tradition -- this is our continuing mission as Americans. So let
us meet it, and thereby honor Andrew Mellon. And let us help art
enrich America -- SO that America can enrich the world.
Thank you for inviting me, and for this wonderful evening.
God bless you, and God bless America.
#
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 20, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
PATRICIA MACK BRYAN PMB
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks Mellon Dinner
Pursuant to James W. Cicconi's staffing memorandum of April 19,
1989, Counsel's Office has reviewed the above-referenced remarks.
We have no legal objections to these remarks. We do note
however, that in our view, the humor in paragraph 3 is difficult
to comprehend; we of course ultimately defer to your judgment on
that issue.
CC: James W. Cicconi
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER
; 4-20-89 ; 4:38PM ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS-
4566218;# 1
Document No. 028041
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
4/19/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
COB 4/20/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MELLON DINNER
ACTION FYI
TION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by close of business
Thursday, April 20. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER
; 4-20-89 ; 4:39PM ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS-
4566218;# 2
(Smith/Simon)
1933 APR 19 AND 2
April 18, 1989
Draft Three
MEL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MELLON DINNER
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
APRIL 27, 1989
Trustees of the National Gallery, Members of the Cabinet,
Members of the Congress, Distinguished Guests.
Thank you for that introduction, and for your generous
welcome. And I want to say what a privilege it is to join you
for this occasion.
In particular, let me say a word about my traveling
companion I refer, of course, to Barbara. I can testify
that the Silver Fox wouldn't have missed this evening for all the
paintings in the universe. After all, it was Andrew Mellon who
observed that "Gentlemen prefer bonds."
We gather tonight in America's cathedral of the arts. And
we meet to salute an American art collector, philanthropist,
financier, and public servant.
In that connection, I want to say a special thanks to Paul
Mellon. His generosity has helped create this priceless Gallery.
And he, as much as anyone, will recall how in Herbert Hoover's
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER
; 4-20-89 ; 4:39PM ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS-
4566218;# 3
-2-
final year as President, a whimsical tale gained popular
currency.
One day, the story went, Hoover was walking down the street
with his Secretary of the Treasury. Suddenly, the President
stopped. "Andy," he said, "I came out this morning without a
cent in my pocket. Lend me a nickel, will you? I want to call
up a friend."
With that, Andrew Mellon paused and reached into his pocket.
"Here's a dime, he said. "Call up both of them."
Well, Andrew Mellon was a friend of art. And, today, he is
making new friends for art across the United States of America.
We see those friends within these halls. In the eyes of a
little girl, entranced by the magic of Degas' [Day-GAHS] Four
Dancers. Or the smile of the elderly woman who finds solace in
Cole's Voyage of Life. Or the two art students who debate, not
always quietly, Jackson Pollock's Lavendar Mist. To them -- to
us -- these works span the generations. For art is timeless; it
enhances the gentler impulses of mankind.
In an abiding sense, Andrew Mellon embodied those impulses.
Yes, he did well -- among our greatest Secretaries of the
Treasury; a man of enormous wealth and power. But, more
importantly, let us remember: He also did good.
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER
; 4-20-89 ; 4:40PM ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS-
4566218;# 4
-3-
Yes, shy and soft-voiced, Andrew Mellon was modest,
unassuming. But few men have done more to make America a better,
more decent place.
To this captain of industry, philanthropy spoke of justice,
involvement, and love of country. For he believed charity to be
among the highest planes of patriotism. Above all, Andrew Mellon
knew that we are a nation, and a family. And fifty-two years
ago, he donated his collection, and built this building, for us,
as members of that family.
Today, more than ever, this collection remains America's
family heirloom. And it shows too that in judging art, believe
me, everyone's an expert.
W.W. Woolcott rhymed, for instance: "In part I pull no
highbrow stuff; I know what I like, and that's enough."
Less lyric, but more acerbic, was Mark Twain.
years
I
ago, he observed, "If the old masters had labeled their fruit,
one wouldn't be so likely to mistake pears for turnips."
And, finally, let me recall how a kindergarten teacher once
conducted a psychological test. How? By setting her students to
work carving soap.
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER
; 4-20-89 ; 4:40PM ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS-
4566218;# 5
-4-
"What are you working on?" she asked one student. "A
panda," the child replied. A second girl responded, "Dog."
Well, finally, the teacher came to a lad whose work defied
description. "What's this?" she asked. "Soap flakes," said he.
See what I mean? When it comes to art, like politics,
there's no mistaking our opinions. Well, when it comes to the
Mellon Collection, there's no mistaking America's opinion.
Andrew Mellon never lived to see the dedication of this
building. But his spirit lives today. It reaffirms America's
decency and kindness. And it celebrates what Franklin Roosevelt,
dedicating this gallery, termed "the relation between the whole
people of this country, and the old inherited tradition of the
arts."
My friends, to enhance our country and ennoble that
tradition -- this is our continuing mission as Americans. So let.
us meet it, and thereby honor Andrew Mellon. And let us help art
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Thank you for inviting me, and for this wonderful evening.
God bless you, and God bless America.
#
#
#
#
1 (Smith/Simon)
April 12, 1989
Draft One
MEL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MELLON DINNER
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
APRIL 27, 1989
Trustees of the National Gallery, Members of the Cabinet,
Members of the Congress, Distinguished Guests.
Thank you for that introduction, and for your generous
welcome. And I want to say what a privilege it is to join you
for this occasion.
In particular, let me say a word about my traveling
companion
I refer, of course, to Barbara. I can testify
that the Silver Fox wouldn't have missed this evening for all the
paintings in the universe. After all, it was Andrew Mellon who
observed that "Gentlemen prefer bonds."
We gather tonight in America's cathedral of the arts. And
we meet to salute an American art collector, philanthropist,
financier, and public servant.
In that connection, I want to say a special thanks to Paul
Mellon. His generosity has helped create this priceless Gallery.
And he, as much as anyone, will recall how in Herbert Hoover's
final year as President, a whimsical tale gained popular
currency.
One day, the story went, Hoover was walking down the street
with his Secretary of the Treasury. Suddenly, the President
stopped. "Andy," he said, "I came out this morning without a
cent in my pocket. Lend me a nickel, will you? I want to call
up a friend."
With that, Andrew Mellon paused and reached into his pocket.
"Here's a dime," he said. "Call up both of them."
aleans,
h
her
Well, Andrew Mellon had more than a friend
cume
And he made
an
friends -- yes, is making them today for the world of art
across the United States of America.
Just a hundred feet or so from here downstairs, you can read
these words etched in marble: "He gave this building with his
collection for the founding of the National Gallery of Art."
Here, Cezanne shines and Walter Hancock towers -- their
works provide a lasting legacy. Yet here, too, this treasure
speaks to future generations. For art is timeless; it spans the
generations; it enhances the gentler impulses of mankind.
child
un a 1
una
am
In an abiding sense, Andrew Mellon embodied those impulses.
successful
moumportantly
Yes, he did well -- striving, dreaming. But let us remember: He
also did good.
Yes, shy and soft-voiced, Andrew Mellon was modest,
unassuming. But few men have done more to make America a better,
more decent place. For he knew that we all inhabit a common
earth. And our fate is not divisible.
To this captain of industry, philanthropy spoke of justice,
involvement, and love of country. For he believed charity to be
among the highest planes of patriotism. Above all, Andrew Mellon
knew that we are a nation, and a family. And fifty-two years
ago, he donated his collection, and built this building, for us,
as members of that family.
Today, more than ever, this collection remains America's
heirloom of the heart. And it shows too that in judging art,
believe me, everyone's an expert.
sypials y morenting
W.W. Woollcott rhymed, for instance: "In part I pull no
highbrow stuff; I know what I like, and that's enough."
Then, there's Mark Twain.
years ago, he observed, "If
the old masters had labeled their fruit, one wouldn't be so
likely to mistake pears for turnips."
And, finally, let me recall how a kindergarten teacher once
conducted a psychological test. How? By setting her students to
work carving soap.
"What are you working on?" she asked one student. "A
panda," the child replied. A second girl responded, "Dog." And
the third- - through seventh said, "Man, table, tree, gun, car."
Well, finally, the teacher came to a lad whose work appeared to
defy description. "What's this?" she asked. "Soap flakes," said
he.
See what I mean? When it comes to art, like politics,
there's no mistaking our opinions. Well, when it comes to the
Mellon Collection, there's no mistaking America's opinion.
realting
Andrew Mellon never lived to see the dedication of this
building. But his spirit lives today. It speaks to America's
decency and kindness. And it celebrates what Franklin Roosevelt,
dedicating this gallery, termed "the relation between the whole
people of this country, and the old inherited tradition of the
arts."
My friends, to enhance our country and ennoble that
tradition -- this is our continuing mission as Americans. So let
us meet it, and thereby honor Andrew Mellon. And let us help
arts enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Thank you for inviting me, and for this wonderful evening.
God bless you, and God bless America.
# # # #
#522
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
EMBARGOED FOR RELEASE
UNTIL 9:00 P.M. EDT
THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 1989
TEXT OF REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
ANDREW MELLON DINNER
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
WASHINGTON, DC
April 27, 1989
We gather in America's cathedral of the arts. And we meet to
salute an American art collector, philanthropist, financier, and
public servant.
In that connection, I want to say a special thanks to Paul
Mellon. His generosity has helped create this priceless Gallery.
And he, as much as anyone, will recall how in his father's final
year as Secretary of the Treasury, an apocryphal tale gained
popular currency.
One day, the story went, Andrew Mellon was walking down the
street with President Hoover. Suddenly, the President stopped.
"Andy," he said, "I came out this morning without a cent in my
pocket. Lend me a nickel, will you? I want to call up a
friend." With that, Andrew Mellon paused and reached into his
pocket. "Here's a dime," he said. "Call up both of them."
Andrew Mellon was a friend of art. And, today, he is making new
friends for art across the United States of America. We see
those friends within these halls. In the eyes of a little girl
entranced by the magic of Degas' Four Dancers; or the smile of
the elderly woman who finds solace in Cole's Voyage of Life; or
the two art students who debate, not always quietly, Jackson
Pollock's Lavender Mist. To them -- to us -- these works span
the generations. For art is timeless; it enhances the gentler
impulses of mankind.
- more -
- 2 -
In an abiding sense, Andrew Mellon embodied those impulses. Yes,
he did well -- our second-longest-serving Secretary of the
Treasury; a man of enormous wealth and power. But, more
importantly, let us remember: He also did good. Yes, shy and
soft-voiced, Andrew Mellon was modest, unassuming. But few men
have contributed more to America's cultural quality of life.
To this captain of industry, philanthropy spoke of justice,
involvement, and love of country. For he believed charity to be
among the highest planes of patriotism. Above all, Andrew Mellon
knew that we are a nation, and a family. And fifty-two years
ago, he donated his collection, and built this building, for us,
as members of that family.
Today, more than ever, this collection remains America's family
heirloom. And it shows too that in judging art everyone's an
expert. W.W. Woollcott rhymed, for instance: "In part I pull no
highbrow stuff; I know what I like, and that's enough." Less
lyric, but more acerbic, was Mark Twain. One hundred and ten
years ago, he observed, "If the old masters had labeled their
fruit, one wouldn't be so likely to mistake pears for turnips."
And, finally, let me recall how a kindergarten teacher once
conducted a psychological test. How? By setting her students to
work carving soap. "What are you working on?" she asked one
student. "A panda," the child replied. A second girl responded,
"Dog." Finally, the teacher came to a lad whose work defied
description. "What's this?" she asked. "Soap flakes," said he.
See what I mean? When it comes to art, like politics, there's no
mistaking our opinions. Well, when it comes to the Mellon
Collection, there's no mistaking America's opinion.
Andrew Mellon never lived to see the dedication of this building;
but his spirit lives today. It reaffirms America's decency and
kindness. It celebrates what Franklin Roosevelt, dedicating this
gallery, termed "the relation between the whole people of this
country, and the old inherited tradition of the arts." To
enhance our country and ennoble that tradition, this is our
continuing mission as Americans. So let us meet it, and thereby
honor Andrew Mellon. And let us help art enrich America -- so
that America can enrich the world.
# # #