Austin Osman Spare

Painter

Birthday December 30, 1886

Birth Sign Capricorn

Birthplace England

DEATH DATE May 15, 1956 (69)

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About

British painter and occultist who was inspired by symbolism and art nouveau. He specialized in line usage, as well as sexual and grotesque imagery. His 'Portrait of the Artist' from 1907 was purchased by Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page.

Before Fame

He attended the Royal College of Art, where he developed his artistic aesthetic based upon fine lines and geometric shapes. His silver medal at the National Competition of Schools of Art brought him to the attention of judges Walter Crane and Byam Shaw.

Trivia

He also developed the technique of automatic writing and published "The Book of Pleasure" in 1913 and "The Focus of Life" in 1921.

Family Life

His father was employed with the City of London Police. He was born in the Bloomfield House tenement, a housing complex for police officers, drivers, clerks, and market workers. He married Eily Gertrude Shaw in 1911.

Associated With

He was inspired by the occultist philosophy of Aleister Crowley.