Gillette Elvgren was born and raised in St. Paul, Minnesota where his father operated a paint store. He created billboard, poster and magazine illustrations but is most famous for his pin-up art, much of which was featured on Brown & Bigelow calendars. Elvgren’s relationship with Brown & Bigelow spanned nearly thirty years. He worked chiefly from oils and used live models as well as photography. The “Elvgren Girl” was a real girl – sweet, sexy and innocent. Gil Elvgren has emerged in recent years as the artist most loved and respected by pin-up collectors and fans worldwide.
