The Life and Art of Michael Lenson
Born in Galich, Russia, Michael Lenson emigrated to the United States in 1911. He pursued his artistic education at the National Academy of Design, where he was awarded the Chalonier Paris Prize in 1928. This achievement allowed him to spend four years studying in Europe, visiting the Slade School of Art in London, the Academie des Beaux Arts in Paris, and the Netherlands. Upon his return to the United States, he became deeply involved with the Works Progress Administration's Federal Art Project in New Jersey, eventually serving as the assistant state supervisor of mural projects. His career was marked by significant contributions to public art, including murals for Newark City Hall and Weequahic High School, as well as a commission for the United States post office in Mount Hope, West Virginia.
Artistic Evolution and Legacy
Lenson's technical approach evolved throughout his career. In his earlier years, he utilized synthetic resins and lacquer to create hard, unyielding surfaces, often incorporating surrealist elements. As he transitioned to painting in oil after 1950, his work adapted from these earlier styles toward socialist realism. His later pieces, such as "Where Are We Now?" (1955), addressed political themes like nuclear proliferation. Beyond his studio practice, Lenson was a prominent figure in the New Jersey art community, writing a weekly column titled "The Realm of Art" for the Newark Sunday News. He also served as an instructor at the Rutgers Extension School and the Montclair Art Museum, leaving behind a body of work held in various prestigious collections.
Questions & Answers
How do I find works by Michael Lenson in a specific palette?
Michael Lenson's works can be browsed by color palette on the artist's By Palettes page.
What other names is Michael Lenson known by?
Michael Lenson is also known as Michael Levenson.
What moods do Michael Lenson's artworks express?
The artist's Mood Room page shows Michael Lenson's artworks arranged by their atmosphere.
How is Michael Lenson's career divided into periods?
A chronological account of Michael Lenson's work is available on the artist's Chronicle page, where the artworks pass in order of creation, chapter by chapter.
