Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney American sculptor and philanthropist Date of Birth: 09.01.1875 Country: USA

1. Biography of Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney
2. Early Life and Education
3. Discovery of Art and Sculpture
4. Philanthropy and the Whitney Museum of American Art
5. Humanitarian Efforts

Biography of Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney

Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney was an American sculptor and philanthropist, best known for founding the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City. She was born into a family that belonged to the upper echelons of American society. Her father was Cornelius Vanderbilt II, her mother was Alice Claypoole Gwynne, and her grandfather was Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, one of the wealthiest individuals in the United States.

Early Life and Education

Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney grew up in her parents' home in Newport, Rhode Island. She received education from private tutors and attended the prestigious Miss Porter's School in New York City. At the age of 21, Gertrude married millionaire and sportsman Harry Payne Whitney, the son of a banker and the grandson of one of the co-owners of Standard Oil. The couple had three children together - two daughters and a son.

Discovery of Art and Sculpture

During a trip to Europe in 1900, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney discovered the world of art. She was particularly impressed by Paris and its artist quarters of Montparnasse and Montmartre. Inspired by her experiences, she began studying sculpture and carving at the Art Students League of New York and later under the tutelage of Auguste Rodin in Paris. She eventually established her own sculpture studios in Greenwich Village, near New York City, and in Passy, near Paris. Gertrude's sculptural works received high praise from art critics.

Philanthropy and the Whitney Museum of American Art

Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney was not only an accomplished artist but also a generous patron and supporter of artists and musicians. In 1931, she founded the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City, transforming her own exhibition space for young artists, which she had built in 1914, into a fully-fledged museum. Gertrude donated over 700 paintings and sculptures from her personal collection to the new museum. She also provided comprehensive support to women involved in the arts and served as the primary sponsor of the International Composers' Guild, which promoted contemporary music.

Humanitarian Efforts

During World War I, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney provided financial assistance to various charitable organizations. She personally worked in patriotic committees and funded the construction and operation of a military hospital in France. She was deeply committed to supporting the war effort.

Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney's contributions to the world of art and philanthropy have left a lasting legacy. Her dedication to American artists and her establishment of the Whitney Museum of American Art have greatly influenced the art scene in the United States. She will always be remembered as a passionate advocate for the arts and a generous supporter of aspiring artists and musicians.