Leo Stein Quotes

A collection of quotes by Leo Stein.

Leo Stein (1872-1947) was an American art collector and critic who played a significant role in promoting and supporting modern art movements, particularly Cubism. Born in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, Stein belonged to a prestigious family which also included his sister Gertrude Stein, a renowned writer and art collector.

Leo Stein moved to Paris in the early 20th century, where he immersed himself in the vibrant artistic scene of the time. Alongside Gertrude, he hosted salons that became famous for attracting avant-garde artists and intellectuals, such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Juan Gris. These gatherings facilitated intellectual and artistic exchange and greatly impacted the development of modern art movements.

Stein's interest in art went beyond mere appreciation, and he began acquiring works by emerging artists. His collection grew to include numerous important Cubist and Fauvist artworks, becoming one of the most substantial early collections of these movements. Notably, Stein's acquisition of Picasso's paintings, including Les Demoiselles d'Avignon, was influential in propelling the artist to international prominence.

As a critic, Leo Stein championed modern art and published articles promoting Cubism and its revolutionary aesthetic. His understanding and support for this evolving form of art played a critical role in shaping public opinion and facilitating the acceptance of Cubism as a legitimate artistic movement.

Although overshadowed by his sister's fame, Leo Stein's contributions to the field of modern art remain significant. His active role as both a collector and critic helped shape the course of art history, promoting and supporting some of the most innovative and influential artists of his time.