Herbert Read

Date of Birth: December 4, 1893

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: June 12, 1968

Biography

Herbert Edward Read, born on December 4, 1893, in Muscoates, Yorkshire, England, was a distinguished poet, literary critic, and art historian. Known for his association with the modernist movement, Read’s works spanned various genres, including poetry, essays, and criticism. He served in World War I, an experience that deeply influenced his poetry, which often explored themes of war and its aftermath. After the war, Read became a key figure in the promotion of modern art and literature in Britain. He held several academic and editorial positions, including a professorship at the University of Edinburgh and a co-founding role in the Institute of Contemporary Arts in London. His contributions to literary and art criticism earned him a knighthood in 1953. Read’s legacy lives on through his extensive body of work, which continues to inspire and provoke thought.

5 Interesting Facts about Herbert Read

1. Herbert Read was a co-founder of the Institute of Contemporary Arts in London.

2. He was knighted in 1953 for his contributions to literature and the arts.

3. Read was an influential advocate of modern art and literature, promoting figures like Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth.

4. He served as the editor of the prestigious literary magazine, “The Burlington Magazine.”

5. Read’s book “Education through Art” is considered a seminal text in the field of art education.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Herbert Read

1. “Art is the most universal language and it is through art that we communicate our innermost feelings.”

2. “Civilization is the progress towards a society of privacy.”

3. “The worth of a civilization is the worth of the individuals composing it.”

4. “The artist’s world is limitless. It can be found anywhere, far from where he lives or a few feet away. It is always on his doorstep.”

5. “Great art is never produced for its own sake. It is too difficult to be worth the effort.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Herbert Read’s highest net worth was never publicly documented, but his influence and contributions to literature and art were invaluable and widely recognized.

Children

Herbert Read had three children: Ben Read, who became an art historian, Piers Read, a noted author and screenwriter, and John Read, who pursued a career in the arts.