Gertrude Stein

Gertrude Stein was an American novelist, poet, playwright, and art collector who became a central figure in the Parisian art world.

Novelist

February 3, 1874

Aquarius

July 27, 1946

72

Allegheny, Pennsylvania

Gertrude Stein was a multifaceted American writer, poet, and art collector who played a central role in the Parisian art world during the early 20th century. She is renowned for her innovative writing style and significant contributions to modernist literature, with notable works such as “Three Lives,” “Tender Buttons,” and “The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas.” Alongside her partner, Alice B. Toklas, Stein hosted a salon that drew numerous esteemed artists and writers, including Ernest Hemingway and Pablo Picasso, fostering creativity and collaboration.

Stein’s influence extended beyond literature, as she was also actively engaged in humanitarian efforts during World War II. She and Toklas volunteered with the American Fund for the French Wounded, supplying aid to hospitals in France. Moreover, Stein’s passion for art led her to amass an impressive collection of works by prominent artists of her era, which she later bequeathed to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

Overall, Gertrude Stein’s impact on literature, art, and society is immense. Her groundbreaking writing style challenged conventional norms and inspired future generations of writers, while her salon in Paris served as a hub for influential artists and writers. Her commitment to humanitarian work during World War II and her remarkable art collection further exemplify her diverse contributions to society.