David Anfam, a distinguished art historian and curator known for his groundbreaking scholarship on Abstract Expressionism, passed away in London on Wednesday at the age of 69. His death marks the loss of a towering figure in the study of modern American art whose contributions profoundly shaped the understanding and appreciation of the New York School.
David was known not only for his intellectual rigour but also for his warmth, generosity, and wit. He profoundly loved literature, music, travel, wine, and fine dining, which informed his approach to his art writings and life. Those who knew him spoke of his deep curiosity, passion for discovery, and commitment to excellence.
Anfam’s personal and professional lives were deeply intertwined; his work was not just a career but a lifelong vocation. His ability to connect with art and the people around him made him a unique figure in the art world.
A deep passion for art marked Anfam’s early years. Growing up in a city rich with artistic heritage, he was drawn to the world of art from a young age. His formal education in art history began at the prestigious Courtauld Institute of Art in London, where he pursued his undergraduate and doctoral studies. His PhD dissertation laid the groundwork for his future scholarship of the artist Clyfford Still and positioned him as a rising star in the academic world.
Throughout his career, Anfam remained committed to education and the dissemination of knowledge. He held various academic and curatorial positions, including at the Royal Academy of Arts and the Clyfford Still Museum in Denver, where he served as a Senior Consulting Curator. His influence extended beyond the walls of museums and universities; his lectures, publications, and exhibitions reached a broad audience, making complex ideas about art accessible to a wider public.
Anfam’s work is perhaps best exemplified by his 1998 publication, the catalogue raisonné of Mark Rothko’s paintings, a monumental 1,000-page volume that remains an indispensable resource for scholars. Critic John Russell once described the book as “a book for all seasons,” highlighting its significance in the field. Anfam’s meticulous research and deep insights also guided the 2016 Abstract Expressionism exhibition at London’s Royal Academy of Arts, which the Financial Times hailed as “the most pleasurable, provocative exhibition of American art in Britain this century.”
In his writings, Anfam brought new perspectives to the works of artists like Mark Rothko, Clyfford Still and Jackson Pollock, unveiling the layers of complexity in their art. His 1990 book on Abstract Expressionism for Thames & Hudson’s “World of Art” series is a testament to his ability to make the movement’s intricacies accessible to a broad audience. Anfam’s belief in the diversity and intricacy of Abstract Expressionism, suggesting it surpassed even movements like Cubism and Surrealism in its depth, continues to intrigue and enlighten art enthusiasts.
Beyond his academic achievements, Anfam was known for his curatorial endeavours, including exhibitions that resonated with experts and the public. His dedication to making art history accessible was evident in his clear, jargon-free writing, which he believed was essential for engaging readers of all backgrounds. This belief underscored his respect for his audience. Anfam was an accomplished curator. His exhibitions were known for their scholarly rigour and ability to engage the public. Among his most celebrated curatorial projects was the 2016 exhibition ‘Abstract Expressionism’ at the Royal Academy of Arts in London and Guggenheim Bilbao. The exhibition, the first major show of its kind in the UK in over 60 years, was met with critical acclaim and helped to reassert the global significance of the Abstract Expressionist movement.
“I knew David quite well. We travelled to the Guggenheim Bilbao, where his Abstract Expressionism exhibition had relocated. He was great company and always inspiring to be with. His interview for Artlyst about the Philip Guston debacle is still a definitive text. – PCR
David’s legacy will continue influencing and inspiring future art historians and enthusiasts. His passing leaves a significant void, but his work will endure as a lasting statement to his life’s passion.”- Paul Carter Robinson Artlyst 2024
Clyfford Still Museum (CSM) stated on its website, “From 2013 to 2020, Anfam directed the Clyfford Still Museum Research Center, which invited scholars to conduct original research in the Clyfford Still Archives. Between 2013 and 2017, the centre also co-organized three symposia on Clyfford Still and Abstract Expressionism at national venues.”
Director Joyce Tsai shared, “Anfam helped to lay the foundation of scholarly and curatorial excellence during his involvement with the Museum; we continue to build upon the strength of that work. His absence will be felt across the field.”
Top Photo: P C Robinson © Artlyst 2024
Artlyst Interview David Anfam 2020