Photograph by Jack Rosen, c. 1970s, Photo Courtesy of James A. Michener Art Musuem library

Literature and music, legend and folklore: these were inspiration for Alden Wicks. His style often has a surreal quality with classically painted figures in allegorical settings such as "The Metaphysicians," in which three philosophers argue while seated on the back of a large whale that is diving back into the sea. Many of his fantastical paintings involved water, boats, and whales; his early childhood experiences on the New England coast and his four year tour of duty as a lieutenant in the navy during World War II influenced his choice of using the sky and sea for a backdrop in his works. Alden Wicks had a long career as an art historian, lecturer, and teacher. After retiring as Assistant Dean of Faculty at Moore College of Art and Design, he returned to Massachusetts and continued to teach for the Westport Art Group. He was a member of the NASA Art program and Environmental Protection Agency. During his time as a resident of New Hope, he was active in local art groups.