Roger Fry, born on 14 December 1866 in London, was an English artist, art critic, and a significant figure in the development of the art scene in United Kingdom during the early 20th century. He played a pivotal role in introducing the works of Post-Impressionism to the British public, significantly influencing the art and aesthetic movements of his time.
Fry was the son of a prosperous Quaker family. He was initially trained as a scientist, studying natural sciences at University of Cambridge and later at King's College London. However, his passion for art led him to abandon his scientific career to study painting in Paris and Italy.
In 1906, after the death of his first wife, Fry turned his full attention to art. He became the curator of paintings at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, but this tenure was short-lived due to conflicts with the museum's director. Upon returning to England, Fry:
Fry was also a prolific writer on art theory. His most influential work, "Vision and Design" (1920), discusses the psychological and aesthetic aspects of art, emphasizing the emotional response to form and color over narrative or historical context. He coined the term "Post-Impressionism" and his theories on art were instrumental in shaping modern art criticism.
Fry continued to paint, teach, and write until his death on 9 September 1934. His influence on the art world extended beyond his lifetime, with his ideas and efforts contributing to the acceptance and understanding of modern art in Britain. His legacy is preserved in:
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