Rockwell Kent and Robert Henri
(first row, second and third from right), c.1902 |
Among Kent’s Teachers
at the New York School of Art was Robert Henri, the charismatic leader
of what is now known as “The Ashcan School.” Henri influenced a
generation of American artists, urging them to consider grittier,
seamier subject matter. Kent’s classmates included George Bellows
and Edward Hopper.
Robert Henri’s greatest gift to Rockwell Kent was his suggestion that
the young artist go to Monhegan Island, Maine, to paint. When Kent
arrived on Monhegan in June 1905, the island’s high cliffs and pounding
surf inspired him immediately. “It was enough to start me off to
such feverish activity in painting as I had never known.”
In the spring of 1907, Kent unveiled fourteen canvasses at Clausen
Galleries in New York. Fellow painter John Sloan wrote in his diary:
| “These pictures are of immense Rocks and Sea in fair weather
and in winter. Splendid big thoughts, some like prayers to God.
I enjoyed them to the utmost and accept them as great. I’d like
to buy some of them.” |
But neither Sloan, nor anyone else purchased any paintings. Kent
returned to Monhegan richer in reputation but $100 in debt.
Prior to his island odyssey, Kent had joined the Socialist Party. His
time spent among Monhegan’s working class crystallized his decision:
| “I envied them their workers’ human dignity. Those social and
political convictions, which had hereto existed as figments in my
mind and heart, began to acquire substance.” |
Soon Kent joined the fray. He labored first as a well driller, swinging
an eight-pound sledge. He served as a substitute lighthouse keeper,
then a longshoreman, and at last, a lobsterman.
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 | Greeting Card: Kent Family, 1910
pencil and ink on paper
Bequest of Sally Kent Gorton
[P52000.192] |
 | Birth Announcement, 1911
ink on scratchboard
Bequest of Sally Kent Gorton
[P52000.13] |
 | Birth Announcement, c.1911
linecut on paper
Bequest of Sally Kent Gorton
[P52000.174.6] |
 | Ave Maria, c.1914
linecut on paper
Bequest of Sally Kent Gorton
[P52000.174.12] |
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