George Edward Woodberry
George Edward Woodberry
Full Name and Common Aliases
George Edward Woodberry was an American art critic, historian, and writer. He is commonly known by his initials G.E.W.
Birth and Death Dates
Woodberry was born on August 7, 1855, in New York City, USA. He passed away on December 8, 1930, at the age of 75.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Woodberry held American nationality and worked as an art critic, historian, and writer throughout his career.
Early Life and Background
George Edward Woodberry was born into a family of modest means in New York City. His early life is not well-documented, but it is known that he developed an interest in art from a young age. He received little formal education but was largely self-taught. As a result, his writing style and perspective on art often reflected this unique blend of personal experience and intellectual curiosity.
Major Accomplishments
Woodberry made significant contributions to the field of American art criticism during the late 19th century. His work as an art critic for various publications helped shape public opinion about artists and their creations. One of his most notable achievements was the publication of American Art, a comprehensive guide that covered American art from colonial times through the early 20th century.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Woodberry's most significant works include:
_The Century Magazine_, where he served as an art critic and published numerous articles
_American Art_, his seminal publication that showcased American artists and their contributions to the world of art
* _A History of Art for the Artist, Designer and Art Lover_, a book that explored the development of various artistic styles
Impact and Legacy
Woodberry's impact on American art criticism was significant. His work as an art critic helped establish the careers of several notable artists, including Winslow Homer and Thomas Eakins. His writing style, which emphasized intellectual curiosity and personal experience, set a new standard for art criticism in America.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Woodberry's quotes on art are widely quoted because they reflect his unique perspective on creativity and the role of artists in society. He believed that art should be accessible to everyone, not just the privileged few. His writing often emphasized the importance of artistic expression as a means of self-discovery and personal growth.
As a writer who had no formal education but was largely self-taught, Woodberry's life serves as a testament to the power of determination and intellectual curiosity. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his career, he managed to leave a lasting impact on American art criticism.
Quotes by George Edward Woodberry
George Edward Woodberry's insights on:

'Old times' never come back and I suppose it's just as well. What comes back is a new morning every day in the year, and that's better.

To feel that one has a place in life solves half the problem of contentment.

Thrashing is not the most noticeably awful of disappointments. Not to have attempted is the genuine disappointment.

I am quite sure that no friendship yields its true pleasure and nobility of nature without frequent communication, sympathy and service.

The sense that someone else cares always helps because it is the sense of love.

If you can't have faith in what is held up to you for faith, you must find things to believe in yourself, for a life without faith in something is too narrow a space to live.

Always begin anew with the day, just as nature does. It is one of the sensible things that nature does.

To be faithful to your instincts and the impulses that carry you in the direction of the excellence you most desire and value ... surely that is to lead the noble life.

