Kenneth Clark

Description: (Art Historian)

Kenneth Clark was a British art historian, museum director, author, TV broadcaster, and host. Revered as a prominent figure in the British cultural scene, he played a crucial role in promoting Italian Renaissance art. He was the youngest director of London's 'National Gallery,' and his writings and lectures had a profound influence on Western culture. His catalogue of Leonardo da Vinci’s drawings at 'Windsor Castle' is regarded as one of his best works. He made several changes to the gallery and also helped establish government patronage of the arts. Even amidst the socio-political disturbances during World War II, Clark kept the gallery open to keep the public connected to arts and literature. He later made a shocking transition to TV and went on to become a celebrated broadcaster for Britain's first commercial TV network. He gained international prominence for 'Civilisation,' a TV series he narrated and wrote. He also hosted TV shows for ‘ITV’ and ‘ATV.’ Some of his critically acclaimed writings, such as 'Landscape into Art' (1949), adapted from his ‘Slade Lectures,’ and, most notably, 'The Nude,' (1956) were published in the latter half of his career.

Overview

Birthday July 13, 1903 (Cancer)
Born In England
Alternative names Kenneth Mackenzie Clark, Baron Clark
City London, England
Died on May 21, 1983
Spouse/Ex- Elizabeth Winifred Clark (m. 1927–1976), Nolwen de Janzé (m. 1977–1983)
Parents Kenneth MacKenzie Clark
Margaret Alice McArthur
Children Alan Clark, Colette Clark, Colin Clark
All Filters