I collected pens: fountain pens and roller balls

Eliseo Rosario Jr. MD

“I believe it was my high school experience that planted that interest in pens so many years later. I started collecting in the 90’s. My first pen purchase was the most memorable. I had been saving for an Omas (Italian), by the time I had enough the pen had appreciated in price, and it left a searing lesson about the pen universe. It was the exposure to mechanical pencils and in particular the drawing pens (Rapidographs) by Koh-I-Noor that left me smitten. Years later, when I discovered pen shows, I was already primed and very curious.

As I delved deeper into the pen world, I was impressed with the historical aspect. There have been many companies, innovations, styles, and some iconic pens that have withstood the test of time. For me, the Japanese company Namiki is the hook that keeps me interested. This company is unique in that its pens are hand-painted and signed. The art form is Maki e. Each pen is a piece of art as well as a writing instrument. It did not hurt that I also have an interest in the Orient. The word that comes to mind when I think of my pens is history.”

Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art is organized and toured by International Arts & Artists.