George Deem

1932 - 2008

Quick facts

  • Copyright status: Under copyright
  • Lifespan: 76 years
  • Died: 2008
  • Also known as: George C. Deem
  • Nationality: United States
  • Born: 1932, United States

The Artistic Vision of George Deem

George Deem was an American painter born in the United States. His creative practice was characterized by the reproduction and reworking of classic images from art history, creating vivid re-workings of established works. He sought to integrate quoted paintings into new compositions, imbuing them with unique designs, structures, and inherent meanings. His approach was described by art historian Robert Rosenblum as a "free-flowing [fantasy] about the facts and fictions of art history."

Deem's technical engagement with the masters was profound; he notably wrote a book regarding the style of Johannes Vermeer. His work often functioned as a clever puzzle for the viewer, requiring a familiarity with the original artworks to fully appreciate the low-key wit embedded within his compositions.

Life and Academic Contributions

Raised on a farm in Vincennes, Indiana, Deem attended the School of the Art Institute of Chicago before serving in the United States Army in Germany. Following his military service, he completed his degree and went on to hold various academic and professional positions. He worked at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the late 1950s and taught painting at several institutions, including the School of Visual Arts, Leicester College of Art and Technology, and the University of Pennsylvania.

Throughout his career, Deem held residencies at several locations, such as the MacDowell Colony and the Evansville Museum of Art and Science. He was also an author, publishing works such as Art School and How to Paint a Vermeer: A Painter's History of Art. He spent much of his life in New York's Flatiron District before passing away in Manhattan.

Questions & Answers

Is there a 3D virtual tour of George Deem's works?

The 3D Museum of George Deem is a page that displays the artist's artworks in a virtual three-dimensional gallery.

What aliases or alternate names does George Deem have?

George Deem is also known as George C. Deem.

Where is George Deem from?

George Deem was born in United States.

Where are George Deem's artworks grouped by art movement?

The All Movements page groups George Deem's artworks by art movement.

Quick quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
In which city was George Deem born?
Question 2:
Which institution did Deem work at in the late 1950s?
Question 3:
Which artist's style did Deem write a book about?
Question 4:
What was the subject of Deem's 1972 work 'Lady of Spain'?
Question 5:
In which year did Deem receive an outstanding alumni award from Vincennes University?