Arthur Cravan Quotes
- Poet
- France
- 1887 - 1918
Arthur Cravan (1887-1918) was a French-born poet, boxer, and publisher who was a major figure in the avant-garde art scene of the early 20th century. He was a controversial figure, known for his provocative behavior and his refusal to conform to societal norms. He was the founder of the magazine Mai…Read More
Arthur Cravan (1887-1918) was a French-born poet, boxer, and publisher who was a major figure in the avant-garde art scene of the early 20th century. He was a controversial figure, known for his provocative behavior and his refusal to conform to societal norms. He was the founder of the magazine Maintenant, which published works by many of the leading avant-garde writers of the time. He was also a successful boxer, winning several matches in Europe and the United States. Cravan’s poetry was highly experimental and often featured surrealist and Dadaist elements. His most famous work is the collection of poems titled Les Pâques à New York (Easter in New York). He died in 1918 while sailing from Mexico to France.Read Less
Arthur Cravan (1887-1918) was a French-born poet, boxer, and publisher who was a major figure in the avant-garde art scene of the early 20th century. He was a controversial figure, known for his provocative behavior and his refusal to conform to societal norms. He was the founder of the magazine Maintenant, which published works by many of the leading avant-garde writers of the time. He was also a successful boxer, winning several matches in Europe and the United States. Cravan’s poetry was highly experimental and often featured surrealist and Dadaist elements. His most famous work is the collection of poems titled Les Pâques à New York (Easter in New York). He died in 1918 while sailing from Mexico to France.
Arthur Cravan Career Highlights
- Born on May 22, 1887 in Lausanne, Switzerland
- Known for being a poet, boxer, and art critic
- Moved to Paris in 1910 and became involved in the Dada movement
- Published his own magazine, Maintenant, which featured works by famous artists such as Pablo Picasso and Guillaume Apollinaire
- Fought a highly publicized boxing match against Jack Johnson, the first African American heavyweight champion
- Disappeared in 1918 and was never seen again, leading to rumors and speculation about his fate
Key Contributions by Arthur Cravan
- Known for his unconventional and provocative poetry, often incorporating elements of satire and absurdity
- Played a significant role in the Dada movement, which rejected traditional artistic conventions and embraced chaos and irrationality
- Used his skills as a boxer to promote his poetry and gain attention for his performances
- Challenged societal norms and expectations through his unconventional lifestyle and disregard for authority
What Sets Arthur Cravan Apart
- Arthur Cravan’s multi-faceted career and unconventional lifestyle made him a unique and enigmatic figure in the art world
- His bold and provocative approach to poetry and art challenged traditional conventions and paved the way for future avant-garde movements
- His mysterious disappearance and rumored death only added to his mystique and cemented his status as a legendary figure in the art world
Takeaways
- Arthur Cravan’s legacy continues to inspire and influence artists and poets today, particularly those who embrace nonconformity and rebellion against societal norms
- His contributions to the Dada movement and his bold and unconventional approach to art and poetry have solidified his place in art history
- His disappearance and rumored death only add to the intrigue and fascination surrounding his life and work.