The 1964 Masters Victory
"The Final Putt"
The story behind The Final Putt, the artwork of Arnold Palmer's 1964 Masters victory.
I have been an Arnold Palmer fan since the late 1950s. From my earliest golfing days I used Arnold Palmer golf equipment, as did the rest of my family. I have followed his career since the beginning and today I find myself an even greater fan of this legend.
I am also an enthusiastic golf memorabilia collector (Arnold Palmer and much more) and have been building my collection for the past 20 years. Through this journey I met sports artist Bill Purdom of North Carolina.
One look at his work and I was hooked and I had to meet him. When I did I knew I had found someone who shared my passion. I was keen to do a project with him and thus Art Golf Classics, Inc. was formed.
I knew at the outset Arnold Palmer, “The King”, would be our first subject. Palmer, the golfer, a man of finest character, integrity, honour and loyalty, devoted to the game of golf while helping and assisting all people in all other walks of life. From reading many of his books I knew the most important victories to him were a select few.
I asked Bill Purdom to create several large sketches, each an image of Arnold Palmer's special major championships. The 1954 US Amateur in Detroit, the 1960 US Open at Cherry Hills in Denver, the 1961 British Open at Royal Birkdale in Southport, England and the 1964 Masters in Augusta.
Next on the list was to gain Arnold Palmer's approval. When Arnold Palmer Enterprises, Inc. was contacted they too decided the project was worthwhile and would complement the Palmer brand.
After a few months and discussions with several experts on the selection committee, Palmer decided the 1964 Masters, one of, if not his most favourite victory, would be painted. We are also pursuing future projects with Arnold Palmer Enterprises, Inc.
I feel honoured to be able to work with Arnold Palmer and his professional, but ever so friendly team, at Latrobe in Pennsylvania and IMG in Cleveland, Ohio. I hope you enjoy this unique and special artwork!
Best Regards,
Craig Blair
President, Art Golf Classics, Inc.
Arnold Palmer Autographed Edition 
