Biography

William Brice was an American artist born on April 23, 1921, and he passed away on March 3, 2008. He was renowned for his large-scale abstract paintings, which evolved over his career from figural and representational works to more abstract compositions. Brice was the son of the famous actress Fanny Brice and grew up in a culturally rich environment that included notable artists and intellectuals. His early exposure to art was further nurtured by formal education at the Chouinard Art Institute and the Art Students League of New York. Brice's artistic journey was marked by a rejection of the more radical movements of his time, such as Abstract Expressionism, in favor of a style characterized by expert draughtsmanship and a classical modernist approach. His work often featured elements reminiscent of ancient ruins, inspired by his travels, including a significant trip to Greece in 1970. Brice's contributions to the art world extended beyond his own creations; he was a dedicated educator at UCLA from 1953 until his retirement in 1991, influencing generations of artists. His artworks are part of prestigious collections, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art. Brice's legacy is celebrated for its unique blend of modernism and classical influences, making his work highly collectible.