Al Held, an American abstract expressionist painter, was born on December 12, 1928, in Brooklyn, New York. He came from a poor Jewish family who struggled to make ends meet during the Great Depression. Growing up in the East Bronx, Held's early years were marked by financial hardship and instability.
Held's interest in art was sparked after his discharge from the Navy in 1947. It was during this time that he met Nicholas Krushenick, a fellow artist who would become a close friend and artistic collaborator. Inspired by Krushenick's work, Held decided to pursue a career in painting and enrolled at the Académie de la Grande Chaumière in Paris, where he studied for three years.
Throughout his career, Held became best known for his large-scale, hard-edge paintings. In 1967, he began experimenting with perspective and spatial conundrums in his black-and-white images, pushing the boundaries of abstract expressionism.
Held's innovative approach to painting caught the attention of the art world, and in 1966, he was awarded the prestigious Logan Medal of the Arts. His work was lauded for its bold colors, geometric shapes, and dynamic compositions, which set him apart from his contemporaries.
Al Held's contributions to the world of abstract expressionism continue to influence artists to this day. His bold use of color and form, coupled with his innovative approach to perspective and composition, have solidified his place as a trailblazer in the art world.
Despite his success as an artist, Held never forgot his humble beginnings. He remained close to his family and roots in Brooklyn, always grateful for the support and encouragement they had given him throughout his career.
Throughout his career, Held forged friendships and artistic collaborations with renowned artists such as Willem de Kooning. Together, they were known for their groundbreaking abstract expressionist paintings, which challenged traditional notions of art and pushed the boundaries of creativity.
Al Held's legacy as an artist is one of innovation, boldness, and creativity. His work continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, cementing his place as a true master of abstract expressionism.