A three-year lease on a larger exhibition space in New York secured the future of the Little Galleries of the Photo-Secession, an act of patronage by a young executive named Paul Burty Haviland. Born in Paris in 1880, he transitioned from the world of china manufacturing to the center of modern art criticism and photography.
Artistic Engagement in New York
Haviland attended the University of Paris and Harvard University before relocating to New York City to represent his father's porcelain business, Haviland & Co. His interest in art led him to the gallery of Alfred Stieglitz. Following his early financial support for the gallery, he became an associate editor and contributor for the journal Camera Work. His own photography gained recognition when he secured first prize at the John Wanamaker Exhibition of Photographs in Philadelphia in 1912.
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Collaboration defined much of his tenure in the American art scene. In 1913, he published an essay titled A Study of the Modern Evolution of Plastic Expression alongside Marius de Zayas. By 1915, seeking to revitalize the gallery's influence, he worked with Agnes Ernest Meyer and de Zayas to launch a radical publication named 291. This journal reflected his ongoing efforts to advance discourse on contemporary artistic expression.
Return to France and Later Life
In 1916, family obligations necessitated his permanent return to France to manage the business in Limoges. He married Suzanne Lalique, the daughter of the designer René Lalique, the following year. Following the resolution of estate matters in 1925, he purchased a 17th-century priory in Yzeures-sur-Creuse. There, he operated a vineyard and lived as a gentleman farmer until his death in 1950.
Recognition and Legacy
In 2006, Haviland was honored as Righteous Among the Nations for his actions in rescuing Jewish people. His contributions to the cultural history of both France and the United States remain recorded through his dual citizenship and his extensive body of critical work. He is buried in Yzeures-sur-Creuse.
Fast facts
- Born: 1880, 8th arrondissement of Paris
- Died: 1950, Yzeures-sur-Creuse
- Citizenship: United States; France
- Education: University of Paris; Harvard University
- Award: Righteous Among the Nations (2006)
- Occupations: Photographer; writer; art critic
Questions readers ask
What was Paul Haviland's relationship with Alfred Stieglitz?
They were close friends and colleagues who collaborated on exhibitions at the 291 gallery and the journal Camera Work.
Why is Paul Haviland recognized as Righteous Among the Nations?
He is honored for rescuing Jewish people during a period of conflict.
Achievements
- Righteous Among the Nations — 2006
- Worked as photographer, writer and art critic
- Educated at University of Paris and Harvard University
