By Phillip Pavia
Located in Surfside, FL
As an artist and writer, Philip Pavia was a committed member of the Abstract Art community throughout his long, distinguished career. Pavia was active in the art world until his death in 2005 and received immense critical praise for his artistic and literary contributions. Recognized for his signature work The Ides of March, he produced monumental pieces that alternated between figurative and abstract styles. While he was a dedicated sculptor, Pavia extended that passion into writing and published It is: A Magazine for Abstract Art.
Born in 1911 of Provencal-Italian descent, the Stratford, Connecticut native received early inspiration from his father, a professional stone cutter. Pavia's sculptures are characterized by rough, chiseled bronze and marble, his father's trade was no doubt a significant influence. In fact, by 1934, his father was so enthusiastic about his son's passion that he encouraged young Philip to study at the Academia delle Belle Arti in Florence, Italy.
Before his studies in Europe, Pavia was briefly a student at Yale University but quickly dropped out and enrolled at New York's Art Student League. While attending school, he befriended artists Jackson Pollock and Arshile Gorky. All three were to become major players of the vibrant new Abstract Art movement. At his father's advice, Pavia embarked on his European experience and was introduced to other influential artists of his time. Traveling between Italy and Paris, Pavia met John Ferren...
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20th Century Abstract Expressionist Phillip Pavia Art