The Formative Years and Academic Path
Born in St. Louis, United States, Maxwell Hendler moved to Los Angeles in 1955. His academic journey in the arts led him to the University of California, Los Angeles, where he earned a BA in 1960 and an MA in 1962. Following his master's degree, he pursued post-graduate studies in painting at UCLA between 1962 and 1964. Hendler’s career in academia began in 1967 when he became a full-time instructor of the arts at California State University at Northridge, later serving as an associate professor at California State University at Long Beach in the School of Fine Arts starting in 1969.
Evolution of Style and Technique
Hendler's artistic practice has undergone significant transformations over the decades. During the 1960s and mid-1970s, his work was characterized by a precise approach derived from direct observation of his subjects rather than photographs, often resulting in small paintings, many measuring less than 12 inches square. By the 1980s, his output shifted toward works featuring textured grounds and painted words, synthesizing elements of pop art, minimalism, and conceptual art. In 1990, he introduced a new method involving poured and polished polyester resin paintings, which are noted for their monochromatic, highly polished surfaces in various sizes and proportions.
Questions & Answers
Where can I see Maxwell Hendler's artworks in chronological order?
The artist's Artwork Timeline page presents Maxwell Hendler's works ordered by date, year by year.
Is there a chronological account of Maxwell Hendler?
The Chronicle of Maxwell Hendler is a scroll-driven timeline that presents the artist's works in chronological order, grouped into career-period chapters.
How do I find works by Maxwell Hendler on a specific theme?
Maxwell Hendler's works can be explored by keyword on the artist's By Keywords page. Each keyword groups the related artworks.
Is there a complete list of Maxwell Hendler's artworks?
Every work by Maxwell Hendler on this website can be browsed from the artist's All Artworks page.
