HISTORICAL POSTMARKS

Joseph L. Friel

7 Winter Street, Medford, MA 02155 USA

Telephone  1-781-395-3383  *  Email   joe@historicalpostmarks.com

It was several years ago when artist/philatelist Joe Friel first began looking at stamps as more than just a basic means of transporting the mail. Yet, in this span of time, Joe has managed to capture the interest of art collectors, interior designers, business groups and political organizations alike with his unusual treatments of historical postmarks.

Born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, Joe has traveled extensively throughout the world, and his art work reflects his appreciation for different cultures and nationalities. His initial interest in the stamp world was sparked during the 1980 Olympics, when former US President Jimmy Carter's boycott of the games led to the withdrawal of the commemorative stamps from the market. Joe began following stamp collectors' magazines, noticing first day covers and seeking out postmarks with historical significance as well as aesthetic appeal.

Recognizing distinct possibilities for a new art form, he then began his postmarks professionally photographed, enlarged and framed. Before long, a number of different organizations began expressing interest in his work.

In addition to Joe's exhibits in Boston-area art galleries and restaurants, Joe's work is also being shown in such firms as Cabot, Cabot & Forbes and The Channel Construction Company. Joe's prints have drawn an enthusiastic response on Boston's public television auctions. Aside from his regular collection, Joe also does work on a custom-made, contract basis.

First and foremost in importance to this artist is a postmark's aesthetic appeal, though the more historical value a piece has, the more he likes it. In his mind, it is the cancellation that lends the stamp its character and proven identity. Unlike many collectors who place a higher value on items that have never been used, Joe prefers those with a past, and seeks unusual pictorial cancellations used to commemorate special occasions.

Joe's prints are available in an 11"x14" format, and sell for $250. framed in brushed aluminum, or $100. unframed. Each print is Numbered, and is a Limited Edition of 400 prints.

Send mail to joe@historicalpostmarks.com with questions or comments about this website.