Paul Degen (1941-2007): The Swiss Illustrator Who Enriched American Art and Invented the ROMA Birth Wheel

Paul Degen, a name celebrated in art and innovation, left an indelible mark on the art scene with his impeccable illustrations and groundbreaking inventions. Born on March 24, 1941, in Basel, Switzerland, Degen’s journey through life was a captivating blend of artistic prowess and inventive spirit. In this article, we delve into the life, career, and notable achievements of Paul Degen, from his early days in Switzerland to his groundbreaking invention of the ROMA Birth Wheel.

Early Life and Education

Paul Degen’s artistic journey began in the picturesque city of Basel, Switzerland. It was here, on that fateful day of March 24, 1941, that he took his first breath. Little did the world know that this newborn would become a renowned illustrator, caricaturist, painter, and sculptor.

Degen’s educational journey laid the foundation for his future artistic endeavors. He began his artistic education as a lithographer at Wassermann Ag in Basel. This initial step paved the way for his pursuit of excellence in art. After completing his lithography training, Degen further honed his skills at the Kunstschule Basel, also known as the Basel College of Commercial Art.

Degen’s thirst for knowledge and artistic refinement led him to Paris, where he studied at the Académie Julian. This period of his life was instrumental in shaping his artistic style and expanding his creative horizons. Under the guidance of mentors and exposure to the vibrant art scene in Paris, Degen’s talent continued to flourish.

Career Takes Flight

In the 1960s, Paul Degen began his professional career as a freelance graphic designer and illustrator in Switzerland. Collaborating with artistic luminaries like Herbert Leupin, Celestino Piatti, and Fritz Bühler at the renowned Atelier Eidenbenz, Degen’s work began to garner recognition for its creativity and distinctiveness.

However, in the early 1970s, Paul Degen took a momentous step by relocating to the bustling creative hub of the world, New York City. This move marked a pivotal juncture in his career, opening doors to unparalleled opportunities in art and illustration.

In the heart of New York, Degen’s talents found a global stage. He worked freelance as a cartoonist and illustrator for esteemed publications such as The New York Times, Esquire, Harper’s Magazine, and The Atlantic Monthly. His contributions to these publications showcased his versatility and artistic brilliance.

But Degen’s New York journey held another significant chapter. He became part of the prestigious Push Pin Studios, collaborating with visionaries like Milton Glaser and Seymour Chwast. This studio, known for its groundbreaking graphic design and illustration work, provided a fertile ground for Degen to refine his craft further.

Geographic constraints did not bind Paul Degen’s career. His artistic pursuits took him to various corners of the globe, including Brazil, Peru, Hawaii, and Bali. Each destination left an indelible imprint on his artistic sensibilities, enriching his work with diverse cultural influences.

After his worldly sojourn, Degen returned to New York at the close of 1988. However, destiny had another twist in store for him. In 1990, he moved back to Liestal, near Basel, Switzerland, a place with deep personal significance.

The Innovation: ROMA Birth Wheel

Paul Degen’s artistic brilliance extended beyond the realms of visual art. During physical vulnerability, Degen conceived an idea that would change lives. In the mid-1980s, while hospitalized for a spinal disc herniation, he faced the discomfort of chronic constipation and the frustration of being bedridden.

Degen’s empathetic nature and creative mind led to an epiphany during this trying time. He realized that women in labor, like himself, might yearn for an upright posture and the comfort of holding onto something. This profound insight became the seed for his groundbreaking invention—the ROMA Birth Wheel.

While confined to his hospital bed, Degen began sketching the initial concepts for the ROMA Birth Wheel. This ingenious device empowered women in labor, allowing them to assume an upright, natural position during childbirth. It was a revolutionary concept that promised to enhance the birthing experience for countless women.

The ROMA Birth Wheel was not merely a product but a testament to Degen’s compassion and dedication to improving the lives of others. Six years of relentless effort and unwavering commitment culminated in the realization of the first ROMA Birth Wheel. This innovation could transform childbirth practices and provide women with a more comfortable and empowering birthing process.

A Farewell to a Legend

Paul Degen’s artistic journey was cut short, marked by creativity, innovation, and empathy. Degen passed away following an operation on May 30, 2007, in Basel, Switzerland. The world lost a remarkable artist, illustrator, and inventor whose contributions transcended borders and touched the lives of many.

Exhibitions and Illustrations

Paul Degen’s work graced exhibitions and publications worldwide throughout his illustrious career. Some notable highlights include:

• Architecture for Children (1000 boxes): Hudson River Museum, New York, showcased Degen’s creative contributions to the field of architecture for children.
• 34 American Architects Travelling Exhibit: This exhibition took Degen’s work to Rome, Venice, Milan, Bologna, and various locations in the United States. It celebrated his artistic interpretations of architecture.
• Gallerie Commercio, Zurich (1979): Degen’s art found a home in Switzerland, where he exhibited his works at the Gallerie Commercio in Zurich.
• Hotel Engel, Liestal (1979/81): The Hotel Engel in Liestal was another venue where Degen’s art was displayed, allowing local audiences to appreciate his creativity.
• Susumo Gallery, Sydney (1981): Degen’s artistic journey extended to Sydney, where his work was showcased at the Susumo Gallery.
• Hotel Engel, Liestal (1985): Returning to Liestal, Degen continued to share his art with the community through exhibitions at the Hotel Engel.
• HP-GARCIA Gallery, Hell’s Kitchen/New York (2006): In 2006, Degen’s art returned to New York, where the HP-GARCIA Gallery in Hell’s Kitchen became a canvas for his creative expression.

Book Illustrations

In addition to his exhibitions and magazine illustrations, Paul Degen’s artistic talents extended to book illustration. Some notable book illustrations include:

• “The Emperor’s New Clothes” by Hans Christian Andersen (Random House, 1978): Degen lent his artistic touch to this timeless classic, bringing the story to life with his illustrations.
• “O Thou Improper Thou Uncommun Noun” by Clarkson N Potter Inc, NY (1978): This book featured Degen’s artistic contributions, enriching the reading experience.
• “David Copperfield” by Charles Dickens (Franklin Library, 1980): Degen’s illustrations graced this literary masterpiece, adding visual depth to the narrative.
• “Die Abenteuer der 3 T Buch” by Ingrid Tschan (Illustrations by Paul Degen, ISBN 978-3-033-01215-8): Degen’s collaboration with Ingrid Tschan resulted in a book that combined the power of storytelling with captivating illustrations.

Legacy

Paul Degen’s legacy is a tapestry woven with artistic brilliance, empathy, and innovation. His contributions to the world of art, illustration, and invention continue to inspire and enrich the lives of many. From the pages of The New York Times to the delivery rooms revolutionized by the ROMA Birth Wheel, Paul Degen’s imprint on the world is an enduring testament to the boundless possibilities of creativity and compassion.

As we celebrate the life and work of Paul Degen, we are reminded that true artists not only create beauty but also leave behind a legacy of positive change. Paul Degen did just that; his memory lives on through his art, inventions, and the countless lives he touched.

Read also: Wolfgang-Adam Töpffer (1766-1847): A Legacy of Swiss Art and the Birth of Comics and Rodolphe Töpffer: The Pioneer of European Comics and the Father of Comic Strips

FAQs about Paul Degen: Swiss Illustrator and Inventor of the ROMA Birth Wheel

Who was Paul Degen, and what was he known for?

Paul Degen (March 24, 1941 – May 30, 2007) was a Swiss illustrator, caricaturist, painter, and sculptor. He was primarily known for his cartoons featured in The New York Times and his 34 title illustrations for The New Yorker magazine during the 1970s and 1980s.

Where was Paul Degen born and educated?

Paul Degen was born in Basel, Switzerland, on March 24, 1941. He received his education as a lithographer at Wassermann Ag in Basel and graduated from the Kunstschule Basel (Basel College of Commercial Art). He furthered his education at the graphic design studio of Theo Ballmer and the Académie Julian in Paris.

Tell me about Paul Degen’s career as an illustrator and graphic designer.

In the 1960s, Paul Degen worked as a freelance graphic designer and illustrator in Switzerland. He collaborated with notable artists such as Herbert Leupin, Celestino Piatti, and Fritz Bühler at the Atelier Eidenbenz. In 1970, Degen moved significantly to New York, where he freelanced as a cartoonist and illustrator for prestigious publications like The New York Times, Esquire, Harper’s Magazine, and The Atlantic Monthly. He also worked at the renowned Push Pin Studios alongside Milton Glaser and Seymour Chwast.

What inspired Paul Degen to invent the ROMA Birth Wheel?

The idea for the ROMA Birth Wheel came to Paul Degen during the mid-1980s when he was hospitalized for a spinal disc herniation. He experienced chronic constipation and the discomfort of lying on his back for an extended period. These challenges led him to reflect on the desire to be upright and hold onto something for comfort. He realized that women in labor might share similar desires. Initial drawings produced during his hospitalization laid the foundation for the ROMA Birth Wheel.

What is the ROMA Birth Wheel, and how does it work?

The ROMA Birth Wheel is an innovative device designed by Paul Degen to assist women in labor. It allows them to achieve an upright, natural position during the delivery of a child. The wheel helps women maintain a more comfortable and empowering posture during childbirth.

Where and when did Paul Degen pass away?

Paul Degen died on May 30, 2007, in Basel, Switzerland. His contributions to art and innovation continue to be celebrated and remembered.

Could you mention some exhibitions that featured Paul Degen’s work?

Certainly! Paul Degen’s artwork was featured in various exhibitions, including:

• • Architecture for Children (1000 boxes) at the Hudson River Museum, New York.
  • 34 American Architects Travelling Exhibit in Rome, Venice, Milan, Bologna, and the United States.
  • Gallerie Commercio, Zurich (1979): An exhibition in Zurich, Switzerland.
  • Hotel Engel, Liestal (1979/81): Degen’s art was displayed at Hotel Engel in Liestal.
  • Susumo Gallery, Sydney (1981): His work was showcased at the Susumo Gallery in Sydney.
  • Hotel Engel, Liestal (1985): Another exhibition was held at Hotel Engel in Liestal.
  • HP-GARCIA Gallery, Hell’s Kitchen/New York (2006): An exhibition hosted by the HP-GARCIA Gallery in Hell’s Kitchen, New York.

Did Paul Degen contribute to book illustrations?

Yes, Paul Degen’s artistic talents extended to book illustrations. He lent his creative touch to books such as “The Emperor’s New Clothes” by Hans Christian Andersen, “O Thou Improper Thou Uncommun Noun” by Clarkson N Potter Inc, “David Copperfield” by Charles Dickens, and “Die Abenteuer der 3 T Buch” by Ingrid Tschan, among others.

What recognition did Paul Degen receive for his innovative work?

In 1992, Paul Degen was awarded the Basel Innovation Prize for inventing the ROMA Birth Wheel, a testament to his impactful contribution to improving childbirth practices.

What is Paul Degen’s lasting legacy?

Paul Degen’s legacy is a combination of artistic brilliance and compassionate innovation. His contributions to the world of art and the field of childbirth continue to inspire and enrich the lives of many, leaving an enduring imprint on both art and humanity.