Pal Fried

Hungarian, 1893 - 1976

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Artist Bio:

Pál Fried (June 16, 1893 – March 6, 1976) was a Hungarian painter renowned for his evocative depictions of female dancers and nudes. Born in Budapest, Fried began his artistic journey at the Hungarian Academy of Arts, studying under Hugo Pohl, who significantly influenced his early work, particularly in portraiture and Orientalist themes. Fried later honed his skills in Paris at the Académie Julian, where he was mentored by notable artists such as Claude Monet and Lucien Simone. The vibrant techniques of the French Impressionists, especially those of Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Edgar Degas, greatly inspired him, leading to a focus on ballet and circus performers in his paintings.
After World War II, Fried emigrated to the United States in 1946, where he took a teaching position at the New York Academy of Art. His portrait work included notable figures like Marilyn Monroe, bringing him both acclaim and financial success. Fried became a U.S. citizen in 1953 and divided his time between Los Angeles and New York City until his passing in 1976.
Fried’s artistic repertoire includes oils and pastels, characterized by a keen exploration of light and movement. While he is best known for his portrayals of dancers and nudes, his portfolio also features landscapes, seascapes, cowboys, and Orientalist scenes. A distinctive feature of his practice was his tendency to create multiple versions of the same painting, varying facial expressions and color schemes. He signed his works in the Hungarian style, using "Fried Pál" to denote his name. Through his dynamic compositions and masterful technique, Fried left a lasting legacy in the art world.