By Darla McCammon
and DeeAnna Muraski

Pictured is “Clown” by Frank Sinatra.

Frank Sinatra, born Francis Albert Sinatra, was a very large baby, weighing over 13 pounds at birth.

He was born on Dec. 12, 1915, to a very petite mother. He nearly died when his mother Dolly was delivering him. He suffered facial and ear injuries from tools the doctors and hospital staff had to use to help him be born. Several surgeries were needed to help him live a normal life.

Sinatra’s parents were Italian immigrants living in Hoboken, N.J. During his eventful life he managed to win literally hundreds of awards for both his music and his acting, but few know how he also enjoyed a hobby that later turned profitable as an American artist. His musical abilities were amazing for someone who could not read music. His acting, particularly in the famous “From Here to Eternity” movie earned him high praise and awards.

His self-taught ability in painting and art proved his ability to excel in many genres. Some of his art was panned by critics but other judges were enthusiastic about his ability in the art field. A good example is his drawing of a sad clown in which he is portraying himself and his emotions during his breakup with the beautiful actress Ava Gardner.

Sinatra’s friend Tony Bennett noted, along with others, that Sinatra’s art seemed to be influenced by world-renowned artists that had already made their mark in the world of art. He did not copy the work of others, but it was often noted how similar his style was to those artists he enjoyed. Sinatra accumulated a large collection of work by other artists. Some, along with Sinatra’s own work, were auctioned off by Sotheby’s for a charity. The sales shocked many critics (and Sotheby’s) for the high prices paid for Sinatra’s personal artwork. One very modern piece was valued at $2,000 to $18,000. They were thrilled when the auctioneer cried, “Sold for $93,750!”

Frank Sinatra was given many nicknames during his life, including one the public adored. They called him “Ol’ Blue Eyes” with his dark blue gaze. But one nickname seemed to stick, because of the gossip that seeped around him. It was “Chairman of the Board.” Questions arose quite often about his underworld connections. It would arise so often that he was investigated by the FBI.

Sinatra was, and still is, considered one of the most popular entertainers of the 1950s and 1960s. His popularity even long after his death in 1998 is legendary. He is considered one of the world’s best-selling music artists. It surprises many of his fans to learn he could not read music at all. Yet his musical voice sold over 150 million records and he actually was capable of directing and producing songs and music employing large bands. It is no surprise that he was also capable of creativity with his oil paints and brushes.

His large art collection showed his keen interest in art. It included many modern artists such as Picasso, Hassam and there is a gorgeous painting done of Sinatra by none other than Norman Rockwell. The original portrait sold for $687,000 and is indicative of the value placed on Frank Sinatra for all his beautiful and varied capabilities.