John Vanderpoel, namesake of the art Association, is standing in the center, probably in the early 20th century.

John H. Vanderpoel, who was a resident of the Beverly Hills community at the turn of the 20^th century.  Mr. Vanderpoel was a distinguished instructor and director at Chicago's School of the Art Institute.

John Vanderpoel was author of "The Human Figure," first published in 1908 and still in print. It is considered a classic text in art instruction. A bound volume of original sketches for this book, contributed by the Art Institute, is on exhibit in the northwest corner of the gallery. 

Fletcher was a student at the Art Institute during the time John Vanderpoel was an instructor.