Date of Birth: February 2, 1906
Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
Date of Death: July 11, 1978
Biography
Harold Rosenberg (1906-1978) was an influential American writer, educator, and art critic, renowned for his role in defining the Abstract Expressionist movement. Rosenberg was born in New York City and began his career as a poet and essayist, contributing to various literary and cultural journals. He became a significant figure in art criticism with his 1952 essay “The American Action Painters,” where he coined the term “action painting” to describe the dynamic, process-oriented approach of artists like Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning. Rosenberg’s writings emphasized the creative process over the finished product, arguing that the act of painting itself was an existential encounter. His ideas contrasted with those of his contemporary and rival, Clement Greenberg, who focused more on formalist aspects of art. Rosenberg’s work appeared in prominent publications such as Art News and The New Yorker, and he taught at several institutions, including the University of Chicago and the New School for Social Research. Throughout his career, Rosenberg published numerous essays and books that explored the intersections of art, politics, and society. His legacy endures through his profound influence on the understanding of modern art and his contributions to the discourse on creativity and expression.
5 Interesting Facts about Harold Rosenberg
1. Harold Rosenberg coined the term “action painting” in his 1952 essay “The American Action Painters.”
2. He was a prominent art critic for Art News and The New Yorker.
3. Rosenberg’s ideas often contrasted with those of his contemporary, Clement Greenberg.
4. He taught at the University of Chicago and the New School for Social Research.
5. Rosenberg was also a poet and essayist before becoming a renowned art critic.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Harold Rosenberg
1. “The new painting has broken down every distinction between art and life.”
2. “The painter no longer approached his easel with an image in mind; he went up to it with material in his hand.”
3. “What was to go on the canvas was not a picture but an event.”
4. “Art is a form of action, an existential engagement.”
5. “Criticism is an art form itself, requiring creativity and insight.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Harold Rosenberg’s highest estimated net worth was not publicly documented, but his influence and contributions to the art world were invaluable.
Children
Harold Rosenberg was married to May Tabak, and they had two children: Patia Rosenberg and Daniel Rosenberg.
Relevant Links
1. [Harold Rosenberg – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harold_Rosenberg
2. [The Art Story – Harold Rosenberg](https://www.theartstory.org/critic/rosenberg-harold/
5. [Harold Rosenberg on JSTOR](https://www.jstor.org/stable/10.1086/ahr/84.4.1101
