Table of Contents
A Life of Resilience and Entrepreneurship
Wilfred Cass’s life was marked by resilience and determination, qualities that would serve him well in his future endeavors. Born in 1915, Cass fled Nazi Germany as a child, escaping the turmoil and persecution that defined his homeland during the 1930s. This early experience would shape his worldview and inform his approach to business and life.
Early Years and Education
Cass’s early years were marked by hardship and struggle. Despite the challenges he faced, he was determined to succeed. He attended school in England, where he developed a strong work ethic and a keen sense of business acumen. Cass’s education laid the foundation for his future success, as he would go on to become a skilled entrepreneur and leader.
Career Highlights
Cass’s career was marked by several notable achievements. He became chairman of Moss Bros, a leading menswear retailer, and later took over as chairman of Reeves, a paint manufacturer. Under his leadership, both companies experienced significant growth and success.
“I’ve always believed that art and commerce can coexist.”
The Legacy of the Cass Family’s Support for Artists
The Cass family’s commitment to supporting artists has been a cornerstone of their business philosophy for over a century. This legacy is a testament to the power of collaboration between art and commerce.
The Early Years: Wilfred Cass and the Birth of the Cass Art Group
Wilfred Cass, the patriarch of the Cass family, was a visionary entrepreneur who saw the potential for art and commerce to thrive together. In the 1920s, he founded the Cass Art Group, which would become a leading art supplier in the UK. The group’s early success was built on Cass’s ability to identify and support emerging artists, providing them with the resources and exposure they needed to succeed. Key features of the Cass Art Group’s early success: + Identification and support of emerging artists + Provision of high-quality art materials and supplies + Exhibition and marketing opportunities for artists
The Cass Family’s Impact on the Art World
Over the years, the Cass family has had a profound impact on the art world. They have supported some of the most renowned artists of the 20th century, including Lucian Freud, Francis Bacon, and Damien Hirst.
Wilfred was exposed to the avant-garde art world from a young age.
Early Life and Influences
Wilfred Cassirer was born into a family of art dealers. His uncle, Paul Cassirer, was a prominent figure in Berlin’s art scene.
The Art of Morag Caister
Morag Caister’s artwork has been making waves in the art world, with her latest piece being shortlisted for the prestigious Cass Art prize. This recognition is a testament to her skill and dedication to her craft. But what makes Morag’s artwork so unique and compelling?
A Background in Unconventional Pursuits
Before becoming an artist, Morag Caister had a rather unconventional career path. She served in the Royal Air Force (RAF) before training in communications technology. This experience likely influenced her artistic style, as she often incorporates elements of technology and communication into her work. Her time in the RAF also gave her a unique perspective on the world, which she has said is reflected in her artwork.
The Early Years of Wilfred Cassirer
Wilfred Cassirer was born in 1906 in London, England. He was the son of a wealthy family and had a privileged upbringing. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he was just one year old, as his family moved to Highgate, a neighborhood in North London. This move would have a profound impact on his life and art.
The Influence of Henry Moore
Wilfred Cassirer’s life was forever changed when he met Henry Moore, a renowned sculptor. Moore was a prominent figure in the modern art movement, and his influence on Cassirer was immense. The two men became close friends, and Moore’s love of sculpture and modern art rubbed off on Cassirer. He began to explore the world of sculpture and modern art, and his father, who had bought the house next door to Moore’s studio, encouraged his interest. Key aspects of Cassirer’s early life: + Born in 1906 in London, England + Moved to Highgate with his family at the age of one + Met Henry Moore, a renowned sculptor + Developed an interest in sculpture and modern art
The Artistic Career of Wilfred Cassirer
As Cassirer grew older, his passion for sculpture and modern art only intensified.
He was asked to send the cheque to the gallery, not to Wilfred. He did so, and the gallery sent the cheque to Wilfred.
The Birth of Cass Art
In 2011, Mark was the MD of Craftsmith, a leading retailer of art supplies and crafts. However, he had a vision to create a business that would not only sell art supplies but also provide a platform for artists to showcase and sell their work. This vision led him to buy the lease to 13 Charing Cross Road, a historic building that had been an art shop for over 100 years.
The Story Behind the Store
Mark’s decision to open the Hampstead store was driven by a desire to create a space that would support his young family and provide a sense of community for the local residents. The store’s location, situated near the Hampstead Heath, allowed Mark to tap into the area’s vibrant cultural scene and capitalize on the growing demand for art supplies and creative resources.
The Store’s Impact on the Community
The Hampstead store has become an integral part of the local community, hosting various art projects and events throughout the year. Some notable examples include:
The Store’s Role in Supporting Local Artists
The Hampstead store has played a significant role in supporting local artists, providing them with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Some ways in which the store has supported local artists include:
The Store’s Commitment to Community Engagement
The Hampstead store is committed to community engagement, recognizing the importance of building strong relationships with local residents and businesses. Some ways in which the store has engaged with the community include:
The Cass Art prize is a prestigious award that recognizes outstanding artistic talent in the UK. The prize is open to all UK-based artists, regardless of their level of experience or medium.
The History of the Cass Art Prize
The Cass Art prize has a rich history dating back to 2011. The prize was established by Cass Art, a leading art supplier in the UK, to provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work and gain recognition. The prize has been awarded annually since its inception, with the winner receiving a cash prize of £10,000 and a stand at The Other Art Fair, a prominent art fair in London.
The Selection Process
The selection process for the Cass Art prize is rigorous and involves a panel of industry experts. The panel reviews a large number of submissions, which are then narrowed down to a shortlist of finalists. The finalists are then invited to showcase their work at The Other Art Fair, where they compete for the top prize.
