Manny Farber

Date of Birth: February 20, 1917

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: August 18, 2008

Biography

Manny Farber was an influential American painter and film critic, celebrated for his unique insights into both the visual and cinematic arts. Born on February 20, 1917, in Douglas, Arizona, Farber initially pursued a degree in structural engineering at the University of California, Berkeley. However, his passion for the arts led him to transfer to Stanford University and later to the California School of Fine Arts. Farber began his career as a film critic in the 1940s, contributing to notable publications such as The New Republic, The Nation, and Artforum. His writing was distinguished by its vivid, often combative prose and its deep appreciation for the visual elements of film. He coined the term “termite art” to describe works that are more concerned with process and small-scale observations rather than grandiose themes. In addition to his critical work, Farber was an accomplished painter. His art often focused on everyday objects and scenes, rendered in meticulous detail. His works have been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums, reinforcing his status as a significant figure in both the literary and visual arts. Farber continued to write and paint until his death on August 18, 2008, in Leucadia, California. His legacy endures through his writings, paintings, and the lasting impact he made on both film criticism and art.

5 Interesting Facts about Manny Farber

1. Manny Farber coined the term “termite art” to describe art that focuses on small, intricate details rather than grandiose themes.

2. He initially studied structural engineering before switching to art, demonstrating his wide range of interests and talents.

3. Farber was a significant influence on later film critics and theorists, including Pauline Kael and Andrew Sarris.

4. His paintings often depicted everyday objects and scenes, rendered with meticulous attention to detail.

5. Farber’s critical work was known for its vivid and often combative prose, setting him apart from his contemporaries.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Manny Farber

1. “Movies are so rarely great art, that if we cannot appreciate great trash, we have very little reason to be interested in them.”

2. “Termite-tapeworm-fungus-moss art goes always forward eating its own boundaries, and likely as not, leaves nothing in its path other than the signs of eager, industrious, unkempt activity.”

3. “The best films are made by people who are less interested in art than in life.”

4. “A good movie is like a good painting, it’s all about seeing the world from a new perspective.”

5. “Criticism should be a casual, nonchalant act. It should not be a burden.”