Alfred Gerrard, English sculptor and academic (d. 1998)

Alfred Horace Gerrard, affectionately known as "Gerry," was a distinguished figure in English sculpture, whose significant contributions spanned most of the 20th century. Born on May 7, 1899, he lived a long and impactful life, passing away on June 13, 1998, just shy of his 99th birthday. He is remembered primarily as an influential English modernist sculptor and a dedicated educator who shaped generations of artists at one of Britain's most prestigious art institutions.

Gerrard’s artistic journey firmly placed him within the modernist movement, a period characterized by a departure from traditional forms and an exploration of new materials, techniques, and abstract concepts in art. His work often reflected the dynamic shifts and innovative spirit of early to mid-20th century British art. The post-nominal letters RBS indicate his membership in the Royal Society of British Sculptors, an esteemed recognition of his professional standing and artistic merit within the field.

A Distinguished Career at the Slade School of Fine Art

Gerry Gerrard's educational career was as significant as his sculptural practice. He spent the majority of his professional life nurturing talent at the Slade School of Fine Art, an integral department of University College London renowned for its rigorous artistic training and influential alumni. His tenure at Slade began remarkably early in his career.

Leadership and Legacy

In 1925, at the relatively young age of 26, Gerrard was appointed the head of the sculpture department at the Slade School. This leadership role allowed him to profoundly influence the curriculum and teaching methodologies, guiding the next wave of sculptors through a period of significant artistic evolution. His commitment to the institution deepened further when, in 1949, he was elevated to the prestigious position of Professor of Sculpture. He held this esteemed professorship for nearly two decades, until his retirement in 1968.

During his extensive tenure at Slade, first as department head and later as professor, Gerrard became a mentor to a considerable number of students who would go on to achieve significant acclaim themselves. His teaching was instrumental in shaping the artistic perspectives and technical skills of these emerging talents, ensuring his legacy extended far beyond his own body of work and into the broader landscape of British sculpture. His dedication to both his craft and his students left an indelible mark on the institution and the wider art world.

Frequently Asked Questions about Alfred Horace Gerrard

Who was Alfred Horace "Gerry" Gerrard?
Alfred Horace "Gerry" Gerrard (1899-1998) was a prominent English modernist sculptor and a highly influential educator. He is best known for his long and impactful career at the Slade School of Fine Art, where he served as head of the sculpture department and later as Professor of Sculpture.
What was Gerrard's artistic style?
Gerrard was an English modernist sculptor. This implies his work embraced the innovative spirit of modernism, moving beyond traditional academic approaches to explore new forms, materials, and concepts in sculpture during the 20th century. While specific details of his individual style aren't provided in the initial text, his association with modernism suggests a focus on expressive, often abstract or semi-abstract forms.
Where did Alfred Horace Gerrard teach?
He taught at the prestigious Slade School of Fine Art, a department of University College London. He began as head of the sculpture department in 1925 and was appointed Professor of Sculpture in 1949, holding that position until his retirement in 1968.
What was his impact on British sculpture?
Gerrard's impact was twofold: through his own modernist sculptural work and, perhaps even more significantly, through his role as an educator. During his decades at the Slade School of Fine Art, he taught and mentored numerous students who subsequently became well-known sculptors themselves, profoundly influencing the direction and development of British sculpture through his teaching legacy.
What does the "RBS" in his name signify?
The acronym RBS stands for the Royal Society of British Sculptors. This designation indicates that Alfred Horace Gerrard was a member of this respected professional body, acknowledging his significant contributions and standing within the British sculptural community.