Ross Parmenter Quotes
- Journalist
- USA
- 1907
Ross Parmenter (1907-1999) was an American writer, journalist, and art historian. He is best known for his extensive coverage of Latin American culture and his contributions to the study of pre-Columbian art. Parmenter’s work often focused on the intersection of art, history, and culture, and…Read More
Ross Parmenter (1907-1999) was an American writer, journalist, and art historian. He is best known for his extensive coverage of Latin American culture and his contributions to the study of pre-Columbian art. Parmenter’s work often focused on the intersection of art, history, and culture, and he was known for his vivid and engaging writing style.One of Parmenter’s most notable works is “The Incas and Their Ancestors: The Archaeology of Peru,” which was published in 1960 and is still considered a seminal text in the field of pre-Columbian studies. He also wrote extensively about the art and culture of Mexico, including the book “The Aztecs, Maya, and Their Predecessors: Archaeology of Mesoamerica” (1961).In addition to his academic work, Parmenter was a prolific journalist and wrote for publications such as The New York Times, The New Yorker, and National Geographic. He also wrote several travel books, including “Baja California: Mexico’s Adventure Peninsula” (1966) and “The Pacific Coast: America’s Scenic Western Shore” (1971).Throughout his career, Parmenter received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the study of Latin American culture, including the Order of the Aztec Eagle from the Mexican government. He remains a highly respected figure in the fields of art history and Latin American studies.Read Less
Ross Parmenter (1907-1999) was an American writer, journalist, and art historian. He is best known for his extensive coverage of Latin American culture and his contributions to the study of pre-Columbian art. Parmenter’s work often focused on the intersection of art, history, and culture, and he was known for his vivid and engaging writing style.One of Parmenter’s most notable works is “The Incas and Their Ancestors: The Archaeology of Peru,” which was published in 1960 and is still considered a seminal text in the field of pre-Columbian studies. He also wrote extensively about the art and culture of Mexico, including the book “The Aztecs, Maya, and Their Predecessors: Archaeology of Mesoamerica” (1961).In addition to his academic work, Parmenter was a prolific journalist and wrote for publications such as The New York Times, The New Yorker, and National Geographic. He also wrote several travel books, including “Baja California: Mexico’s Adventure Peninsula” (1966) and “The Pacific Coast: America’s Scenic Western Shore” (1971).Throughout his career, Parmenter received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the study of Latin American culture, including the Order of the Aztec Eagle from the Mexican government. He remains a highly respected figure in the fields of art history and Latin American studies.
Ross Parmenter Career Highlights
- Parmenter began his career as a journalist, working for various newspapers and magazines such as The New York Times, The New Yorker, and The Nation.
- In 1935, he traveled to Mexico and became fascinated with the country’s art and culture. This sparked his interest in art history and led him to write his first book, “The Real Mexico: A Modern View of the Land and the People.”
- Parmenter’s expertise in Mexican art and culture led him to become a consultant for the Museum of Modern Art in New York, where he curated several exhibitions.
- In 1941, he joined the faculty of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) as a professor of art history. He taught there for over 30 years and became a renowned expert on Latin American art.
- Parmenter also wrote several books on art and culture, including “The Golden Age of Mexican Painting” and “The Smithsonian Guide to Historic America: The Southwest.”
- He was a prolific writer and contributed articles to various publications, including Art in America, Art News, and The New York Times Book Review.
Key Contributions by Ross Parmenter
- Parmenter’s most significant contribution was his extensive research and writing on Mexican art and culture. He was one of the first American scholars to study and promote Mexican art, which was largely unknown in the United States at the time.
- His work helped to bring attention to Mexican artists such as Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and Rufino Tamayo, and their contributions to the art world.
- Parmenter’s expertise also extended to other areas of Latin American art, including pre-Columbian and colonial art. He played a crucial role in introducing these art forms to a wider audience.
- As a professor at UCLA, Parmenter influenced and inspired many students to pursue careers in art history and Latin American studies. He also mentored several young scholars and helped to establish the field of Latin American art history in the United States.
What Sets Ross Parmenter Apart
- Parmenter’s passion for Mexican art and culture set him apart from other art historians of his time. He was deeply committed to promoting and preserving the art and heritage of Mexico and other Latin American countries.
- His extensive research and writing on Mexican art and culture helped to bridge the gap between the United States and Latin America, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.
- Parmenter’s writing style was engaging and accessible, making his work appealing to a wide audience. He was able to convey complex ideas and concepts in a clear and concise manner, making him a highly respected and influential writer.
Takeaways
- Ross Parmenter’s career highlights and key contributions demonstrate his significant impact on the fields of art and culture, particularly in the study of Mexican and Latin American art.
- His passion, dedication, and expertise have helped to shape the way we understand and appreciate art from these regions.
- Parmenter’s legacy continues to inspire and influence scholars and art enthusiasts, making him a highly respected figure in the art world.