George Benjamin Luks

George Luks (1867-1933)

George Benjamin Luks was an American artist who was born in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, on August 13, 1867. He is best known for his paintings of urban life, which are characterized by their bold colors, vigorous brushstrokes, and realistic depictions of working-class people. Luks was a member of The Eight, a group of American realist painters who rebelled against the academic art establishment. He was also a founding member of the Society of Independent Artists, which was dedicated to exhibiting the work of artists who were not affiliated with any particular school or movement.

Early Life

Luks was born into a poor family. His father was a German immigrant who worked as a tailor, and his mother was a native of Pennsylvania. Luks had a difficult childhood. He was often sick, and he was bullied by other children. He found solace in drawing, and he began to take art classes at a young age.

Education

In 1884, Luks enrolled at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia. He studied there for two years, but he was not happy with the academic curriculum. He felt that the school was too focused on copying the Old Masters, and he wanted to learn how to paint from life. In 1886, Luks left the Pennsylvania Academy and moved to New York City.

Early Career

In New York City, Luks worked as a newspaper illustrator. He also began to paint in earnest. He met other artists who shared his interest in realism, and they formed a group called The Eight. The Eight exhibited their work together for the first time in 1908. The exhibition was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish Luks as a leading figure in American art.

Mature Career

In the years that followed, Luks continued to paint and exhibit his work. He also taught art at the Art Students League of New York. In 1913, Luks was one of the artists who exhibited at the Armory Show, which was a major exhibition of modern art. Luks continued to paint until his death in 1933. He was 66 years old.

Style

Luks's paintings are characterized by their bold colors, vigorous brushstrokes, and realistic depictions of working-class people. He was influenced by the work of the French Impressionists, but he also developed his own unique style. Luks's paintings are often described as being both realistic and expressionistic. They capture the energy and vitality of urban life, and they also convey a sense of compassion for the working class.

Influences

Luks was influenced by a wide range of artists, including the French Impressionists, the Ashcan School, and the Mexican muralists. He was also influenced by the work of writers such as Theodore Dreiser and Jack London.

Themes

Luks's paintings often explore themes of social justice, poverty, and the working class. He was also interested in the relationship between art and life.

Legacy

George Luks is one of the most important American artists of the 20th century. His paintings are a testament to his talent and his commitment to social justice. Luks's work continues to be admired by artists and critics alike. He is a major figure in the development of American art, and his work will continue to be studied and appreciated for many years to come.

Other Information

• Luks was a heavy drinker and a womanizer. He was also a talented boxer and a skilled horseman.
• Luks was a staunch supporter of the labor movement and a vocal opponent of child labor.
• Luks was a founding member of the Society of Independent Artists, which was dedicated to exhibiting the work of artists who were not affiliated with any particular school or movement.
• Luks's work is included in the collections of many important museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Whitney Museum of American Art.