Kenneth Clark

Date of Birth: July 13, 1903

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: May 21, 1983

Biography

Kenneth Clark was an influential author born on July 13, 1903, in London, England. He is best known for his work in art history and criticism, most notably his role as the presenter and writer of the television series “Civilisation: A Personal View by Kenneth Clark,” which aired in 1969. Clark’s comprehensive knowledge and approachable style made him a household name and brought art history to a broader audience. Educated at the University of Oxford, Clark started his career as a curator at the Ashmolean Museum and later became the Director of the National Gallery in London during World War II, where he safeguarded the nation’s art treasures. After the war, he became the Slade Professor of Fine Art at Oxford and continued to write and lecture extensively on art. Clark’s contributions to art history were not limited to his television series; he authored numerous books, including “The Nude: A Study in Ideal Form” and “Landscape into Art.” His eloquence and passion for the subject helped to demystify art for the general public. Kenneth Clark passed away on May 21, 1983, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of art and literature.

5 Interesting Facts about Kenneth Clark

1. Kenneth Clark was knighted in 1938, becoming Sir Kenneth Clark.

2. He was instrumental in evacuating valuable artworks from London to prevent damage during World War II.

3. Clark was the youngest person ever appointed as the Director of the National Gallery at the age of 30.

4. His television series “Civilisation” was one of the first major documentaries to be made in color.

5. Clark was an avid supporter of modern art, despite his deep roots in classical art history.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Kenneth Clark

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

2. “All great civilizations, in their early stages, are based on success in war.”

3. “The greatest achievement of the human spirit is to live up to one’s opportunities and make the most of one’s resources.”

4. “Art for art’s sake is a philosophy of the well-fed.”

5. “No amount of skillful invention can replace the essential element of imagination.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Kenneth Clark’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $10 million at the peak of his career, largely derived from his books, television series, and various academic appointments.

Children

Kenneth Clark had three children: 1. Alan Clark – A British Conservative Member of Parliament and diarist. 2. Colin Clark – An economist and author. 3. Colette Clark – A noted art historian.