Honoring the Legacy of Calvin Tomkins, Rhoda Roberts, and Agosto Machado

**In Memoriam: Honoring Recent Losses in the Art World**

**Calvin Tomkins (1925–2026) – Celebrated Art Writer**
Calvin Tomkins graced the pages of the *New Yorker* for over six decades, crafting profiles of renowned artists such as Marcel Duchamp and Robert Rauschenberg. With a knack for distilling complex art into elegant prose, he became known as the Vasari of our time. Tomkins also authored seminal books like *Living Well Is the Best Revenge* and *The Lives of Artists*. Even in his final year, hindered by failing eyesight, he continued to capture art’s vitality, encapsulating a lifetime of dedication and insight.

**Brad Bucher (1942–2026) – Art Collector and Patron**
Alongside his wife, Leslie, Brad Bucher was a formidable force in Houston’s art scene. Their generosity extended to institutions like the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft and Rice University. Known for their support of contemporary arts, the Buchers ensured their legacy through an eponymous art space and artist-in-residence program.

**Philip Castle (1942–2026) – British Airbrush Artist**
Philip Castle’s distinct airbrush technique gave us the iconic *A Clockwork Orange* poster and David Bowie’s *Aladdin Sane* cover. His works have become emblematic of an era, marking him as a luminary in the fields of album cover and film poster art.

**Thomas Gentille (1936–2026) – Master Jeweler and Teacher**
Thomas Gentille’s conceptual jewelry, using materials like wood and acrylic, pushed the boundaries between art and adornment. Exhibited worldwide, his pieces and teachings at institutions like the Parsons School of Design influenced countless creators in the realms of jewelry and Minimalist art.

**Charlotte Gere (1937–2026) – Art Historian**
Charlotte Gere, through more than 20 books, shaped the understanding of jewelry, the Arts & Crafts movement, and Pre-Raphaelite women. With her husband John, she amassed an impressive collection of 18th- and 19th-century landscapes, all contributing to art historical scholarship.

**Robert L. “Larry” Godwin (1934–2026) – Alabama Sculptor**
Blending engineering with art, Robert Godwin created beloved public artworks like “Rusty” the red dog. His unique approach merged sculptures and abstract compositions, creating lasting art throughout Alabama.

**Sam Kieth (1963–2026) – Comic Artist**
Sam Kieth left an indelible mark on the comic industry with series like *The Maxx* and contributions to *The Sandman*. A multitalented creator, he also directed animated series, shaping pop culture landscapes.

**Carol Kitman (1930–2026) – Photographer**
Capturing decades of history, Carol Kitman profiled the Vindman brothers from youth to their political testimony. Her work is a profound documentation of personal and political moments over time.

**Swietlan Nicholas Kraczyna (1940–2026) – Russian-Italian Artist**
With a career spanning continents, Swietlan Kraczyna was renowned for his vivid documentation of the 1966 Florence flood. His influence as a printmaking educator has left lasting impressions on art institutions globally.

**Agosto Machado (d. 2026) – Performance Artist and Activist**
Integral to NYC’s 1960s art scene, Agosto Machado emerged from the Stonewall uprising to become an icon. His legacy includes artistic contributions and caregiving during the AIDS crisis, testament to his enduring impact.

**Egidio Marzona (1944–2026) – German-Italian Art Collector**
Egidio Marzona’s collections, focusing on movements like Dada and Bauhaus, were pivotal in framing 20th-century avant-garde art. His contributions to German cultural institutions highlight his dedication to art preservation.

**Rhoda Roberts (1959–2026) – Australian Indigenous Art Champion**
Rhoda Roberts was a transformative figure in making Indigenous Australian culture globally prominent. From the Sydney 2000 Olympics to theater, her roles broke new ground for Indigenous art representation.

**Marica Vilcek (1936–2026) – Art Historian and Philanthropist**
Marica Vilcek’s work with prestigious institutions and the Vilcek Foundation greatly enhanced art and biomedical research fields. Her Pre-Columbian and Native American art collections remain testaments to her passion.

**Desmond Williams (1932–2026) – Architect of Catholic Modernist Churches**
Desmond Williams’ architectural vision shaped Modernist church design, creating over 20 churches with notable artist collaborations. His work left a lasting legacy on religious architectural landscapes.