Elias Friedensohn was an American artist who made significant contributions to the world of post-war art. His work is characterized by its bold color schemes and energetic compositions, which often incorporate non-rectilinear structures and non-traditional materials. Friedensohn was born in New York City in 1919 and showed a remarkable talent for art from a young age. He studied under the renowned Hans Hofmann and later under the abstract expressionist Larry Rivers, both of whom had a profound influence on his artistic style. In the 1950s, Friedensohn's work was exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and he was a member of the Ten American Painters, a group of artists who sought to challenge the dominance of European art in the United States. Friedensohn's most famous works include the 1961 sculpture The White King and the 1976 canvas The Mexican Mural. These pieces showcase his unique approach to art, which often incorporates elements of abstraction and surrealism. Throughout his career, Friedensohn remained committed to pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms. He experimented with a variety of materials, including metal, wood, and plastic, and his sculptures often incorporated found objects and everyday materials. His work has been praised for its innovative use of color and form, as well as its ability to capture the energy and spirit of post-war America. In addition to his artistic contributions, Friedensohn was also a respected teacher and mentor. He taught at a number of institutions, including the Art Students League of New York and the Parsons School of Design. His influence can still be felt in the work of many contemporary artists, who continue to draw inspiration from his bold and innovative approach to art.
Elias Friedensohn, American artist, post-war art, bold color schemes, non-traditional materials, Hans Hofmann, Larry Rivers, Museum of Modern Art, Ten American Painters, abstraction, surrealism, innovative use of color and form, Art Students League of New
Elias Friedensohn (1919-2006) was an American artist whose work is renowned for its bold color schematics and exuberant energy. He was born in New York City, showing precocious talent from a young age. Early in his career, he was a student of the esteemed Hans Hofmann and later studied under the abstract expressionist, Larry Rivers. In the 1950s, his works were exhibited in MoMA and he was also a part of the Ten American Painters. He was among the first to use non-rectilinear structures and non-traditional materials for his sculptures. His most famous works include the 1961 sculpture, “The White King” and the 1976 canvas, “The Mexican Mural”. Elias Friedensohn is regarded as one of the major figures in American post-war art.
Elias Friedensohn, American Artist, USA, Post-War Art, Abstract Expressionism.
— Mei Wang
CITATION : "Mei Wang. 'Elias Friedensohn.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=202597 (Accessed on July 08, 2025)"
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