Austin Osman Spare was born on December 30, 1886, in England. He came from a humble background, as his father worked for the City of London Police. Growing up in the Bloomfield House tenement, Spare was surrounded by police officers, drivers, clerks, and market workers.
From a young age, Spare showed a talent for art. He attended the Royal College of Art, where he honed his skills and developed his unique artistic aesthetic. It was during this time that he began to explore symbolism and art nouveau, which would later become integral to his work.
Spare's artistic style was characterized by his use of fine lines and geometric shapes. He was drawn to symbolism and the occult, incorporating themes of sexuality and the grotesque into his work. His paintings often featured mesmerizing and enigmatic imagery, reflecting his interest in the mystical and esoteric.
One of Spare's most famous works is the 'Portrait of the Artist' from 1907, which caught the attention of Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page. The painting was purchased by Page, solidifying Spare's reputation as a talented and visionary artist.
Aside from his paintings, Spare also delved into writing. He developed the technique of automatic writing, a method of allowing the subconscious mind to write freely without conscious interference. In 1913, he published "The Book of Pleasure," a seminal work that explored his artistic and occult beliefs. This was followed by "The Focus of Life" in 1921, further cementing Spare's influence in esoteric circles.
In 1911, Spare married Eily Gertrude Shaw, beginning a new chapter in his personal life. Despite his growing fame as an artist and occultist, Spare remained grounded, finding solace in his relationship with Shaw.
Spare's work was greatly influenced by the occultist philosophy of Aleister Crowley. Both artists shared an interest in mysticism and the supernatural, leading Spare to incorporate Crowley's teachings into his own artistic practice. This connection further solidified Spare's reputation within the occult community.
Throughout his career, Austin Osman Spare pushed the boundaries of art and spirituality, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and intrigue admirers to this day.
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