The Neiman-Marcus Christmas Book was once so highly anticipated that its publication was national news especially for its outrageous offerings, such as, a condominium in Hawaii - $1.2 million - in the 1982 Christmas Book. The “His/Her Gift” in 1982 was an exercise machine for $20,000.
As with other catalogs - French Creek Sheep and Wool Co. and The Popcorn Factory - I wrote a “To Whom It May Concern” letter to Neiman-Marcus and suggested that they sell Tomie’s books in their catalog. They wrote back to ask Tomie to submit a design for the Christmas Book cover.
They loved his design and used it in 1982. They also sold GIORGIO’S VILLAGE in that catalog and products created from the cover design: drink glasses, a cookie tin, note cards, and wrapping paper.
When Tomie autographed at Neiman-Marcus in Texas, he said it was so much fun to see his cover design walking around the store on shopping bags
Because we had a contact, I suggested Tomie’s friend, Trina Schart Hyman, for a future catalog cover. Trina’s design was not accepted by Neiman-Marcus, but she was paid a fee for her submission.
Trina offered to give me the fee, but I declined. She instead gave me the rejected, yet beautiful, artwork. (Bob)
Pray for Peace, Justice, and Equality
