biography

Charles Broderson: Evolving the Art of Backdrops

Charles Broderson, a distinguished New York artist, has left an indelible mark on the world of photography and advertising with his unparalleled expertise in backdrop painting. Since embarking on his creative journey in 1974, Charles has not only honed his craft but has also revolutionized the way photographers and art directors envision their projects.

Educated in both commercial and fine art, Charles possesses a unique blend of skills that set him apart in the industry. His journey began with a brief stint as a model with the prestigious Wilhelmina Model Agency, providing him with invaluable insights into the world of fashion and photography. However, during his networking endeavors within the photo and advertising community, Charles, a keen observer and student of classical studio portraiture, recognized his true calling early on. Inspired by a 1942 photograph of his Seabee father in front of a backdrop, Charles copied and later posed in front of it during his time at Wilhelmina Models.

Recognizing a gap in the market, Charles pioneered the concept of hand-painted backdrops as an exciting alternative to the mundane seamless paper. His innovative vision captivated the creative minds in the industry, offering them the opportunity to craft limitless atmospheres right within their studios. Charles's artistic prowess knew no bounds; he could transport clients to any corner of the globe or even beyond it through his meticulously crafted scenes.

Over time, the commercial world began to recognize the practicality and versatility of Charles's backdrops. No longer constrained by factors such as inclement weather, location limitations, tight budgets, or creative direction uncertainties, clients found solace and reliability in his creations. Collaborating with fellow artists on challenging assignments became Charles's hallmark, and this collaborative spirit shines through in his iconic works.

Noteworthy among Charles's portfolio are the City Scape series (drop #'s 1037 - 1044), commissioned by Bonwitt Teller in 1980, and the 'La Belle Epoque' series featuring Rose Gardens and Newport Sea Scapes (drop #'s 1075 - 1080), commissioned by the legendary Diana Vreeland for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute in 1982. These masterpieces bear testament to Charles's artistic brilliance and his ability to transform visions into reality.

During his involvement in the 'Chariots of Fire' campaign for Bloomingdale's, Charles stumbled upon a new genre – textured backdrops. This discovery was a game-changer in the industry, with Charles single-handedly putting the 'textured' backdrop on the map. His innovative approach to texture brought a new dimension to photography and advertising, captivating the imagination of countless professionals.

Charles Broderson is not just an artist; he's a visionary and an innovator with an uncanny sense for creating trends that seamlessly adapt to the ever-evolving demands of the fashion and advertising world. For those who are just discovering the magic of Broderson Backdrops, a warm welcome awaits. To our loyal and cherished clients, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and appreciation.

In summary, a native New Yorker, Charles's journey began at the H.S. of Art & Design in NYC, followed by further education at The School of Visual Arts. Scholarships that led to European adventures and extensive travel throughout Asia profoundly influenced his work, inspiring the creation of scenic panoramas.

Charles Broderson's legacy is one of innovation, collaboration, and artistic excellence, making him an iconic figure in the world of backdrops and a true luminary in the realm of art and advertising.

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