George Constant was a Greek-American artist who made significant contributions to the world of abstract expressionism. Born in Athens in 1912, Constant immigrated to the United States at the age of eight and eventually became a naturalized citizen. He initially trained as a furniture designer before studying painting at the Art Students League in New York City. Later, he pursued further studies in mural painting, drawing, and sculpture at the California School of Fine Arts in San Francisco. It was there that he met other notable abstract expressionists such as Mark Rothko and Clyfford Still. Throughout his career, Constant created a diverse body of work that included large-scale abstract paintings, expressionist murals, and sculptures. His works often featured bold colors, sweeping brushstrokes, and dynamic shapes that conveyed a sense of movement and energy. One of his most famous works is the Metaphysical City mural, which is located in the lobby of the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission building. The mural features a colorful, abstract depiction of the city's skyline and has become an iconic symbol of San Francisco's art scene. In addition to his artistic pursuits, Constant was also an influential teacher and mentor to many aspiring artists. He taught at several institutions, including the California School of Fine Arts, the San Francisco Art Institute, and the University of California, Berkeley. His teaching style emphasized experimentation and encouraged students to explore their own creative instincts. Overall, George Constant's legacy as an artist and teacher has had a lasting impact on the world of abstract expressionism and the broader art world. His works continue to inspire and captivate audiences, while his teaching philosophy has helped shape the careers of countless artists.
George Constant, abstract expressionism, Metaphysical City, mural, San Francisco, teaching
CITATION : "Kevin Harris. 'George Constant.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=388053 (Accessed on July 04, 2025)"
George Constant (1912-2005) was an American artist, best known for his abstract expressionist painting. He was born in Athens, Greece and immigrated to the United States in 1920. After training as a furniture designer, he studied painting at the Art Students League in New York. Constant also studied mural painting, drawing, and sculpture at the California School of Fine Arts, where he met Mark Rothko and Clyfford Still and other Abstract Expressionist painters. He became an American citizen in 1938. Among his most famous works are the Expressionist murals such as Metaphysical City and The Enchanted Forest. He also created a number of large-scale abstract paintings, including his series of “Circles and Curtains.” For his contribution to the American arts, George Constant was awarded the National Medal of Arts in 1992.
George Constant, Abstract Expressionist, American Artist, National Medal of Arts, Metaphysical City, The Enchanted Forest, Circles and Curtains.
— Mei Wang
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