Theodore Largman (1923 - 2020)
Theodore Largman was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and lived for many years within a short walk of Independence Hall. The legendary building was an inspiration for him and enhanced his patriotic feelings and love of history. Ted’s parents immigrated from Eastern Europe in the early 1920’s and opened a restaurant whose upper floors served as the family’s home. Through his early years, Ted could often be found behind the deli counter or in a back booth studying when he was not helping with chores or teasing his younger sister, Evelyn.
Ted attended Temple University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry. At the age of 18, he took a three year hiatus from his studies to enlist in the United States Army. A veteran of World War II, he was stationed in New Guinea and the Philippines where he was a technical expert and was decorated many times for his service. After the war, Ted went on to earn his Ph.D. in chemistry at Indiana University.
A job offer from Allied Chemical brought him to Morristown, New Jersey, where he was a Senior Research Scientist. During his 39 year tenure, Dr. Largman was awarded over 35 patents. He developed fire proof nylon, novel polymers, new agrichemicals, improved amino acid synthesis and an array of new synthetic fibers with singular properties and structure for use in carpets, textiles and fibers.
After his retirement, Ted sought to apply his creative talents to areas outside the field of science. Enrolling in numerous classes at local colleges and universities, he explored mediums such as photography, oil painting, wood carving and clay. Sculpture classes with Toni Lordi introduced him to a unique medium which he scientifically calls “Boxology”.
Ted’s artwork has moved from dioramas and shadow boxes to mystical and abstract presentations. They are best compared to three dimensional political cartoons, poems or erudite essays. Through his sculptures, Ted (who’s nom de plume is TEleazer) tells stories that challenge our way of thinking with juxtapositions of ancient and modern facts, often with a humorous twist. They concisely combine technology mythology, religion, science and irony.
Ted Largman was extensively involved in his community. He was chair of the Morris Township Environmental Commission and successfully launched of the Renaissance Group, a social and educational organization for elders, which has been replicated to 33 locations across the country. In recognition of his 50 years of service to the community, Ted had a community garden named in honor of him.
A note from Ted’s son, Rich: Doris, Ted’s wife of 31 years, died in 1990. Shortly there after, I remember a day when my Dad and I had a very frank conversation in our kitchen. He was leaning against the counter and I was a few feet away leaning against a work desk my Mom used to write bills, letters, etc. The gist of the conversation was that at the age of 67, my Dad was done. There wasn’t much left to live for and “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.”
Having none of that talk, I remember looking my Dad in the eye and saying, “What a bunch of bullshit.” I don’t think it was a point of disagreement or disrespect as much as it was a plea for him not to give up.
Over the next 30 years we all watched my Dad re-invent himself and become an artist, community leader, travel the world and live an incredible life until just shy of his 97th birthday.
Art made my Dad come alive. It healed him and helped to transform him. It allowed him to find his voice and share it, and his thoughts, with the rest of the world. He was a quiet man, but when talking about his art his face lit up and he came alive.