Xavier Gonzalez

Xavier Gonzalez (1898–1993) was a Spanish-born American artist whose diverse career spanned continents and disciplines. Born in Almería, Spain, Gonzalez's early life took him through Argentina and Mexico before he immigrated to the United States in 1925. Initially drawn to engineering, Gonzalez ultimately pursued his passion for art, a decision that would define his legacy.
Gonzalez's formal art education began in the early 1920s at the Art Institute of Chicago, where he studied from 1921 to 1923 alongside his uncle, the artist José Arpa. He continued his studies in Mexico City at the San Carlos Academy and later expanded his artistic exploration with stints in Paris and the Far East. These international experiences deeply influenced his artistic development, shaping his distinctive style.
In 1931, Gonzalez became a U.S. citizen and soon after married fellow artist Ethel Edwards in 1935, who was also his student at Newcomb College. Throughout his career, Gonzalez was closely connected to the academic world, teaching at institutions such as Tulane University, Case Western Reserve University, the Brooklyn Museum, and Newcomb Memorial School of Art. He also served as the director of the art school at Sul Ross State Teachers College in Alpine, Texas.
Gonzalez’s works are held in prominent collections across the United States, including the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Corcoran Gallery of Art. His public murals, including a notable work for the post office in Kilgore, Texas, reflect his commitment to integrating art into everyday life. He was also recognized internationally, with exhibitions in Paris, Venice, Brussels, and Tokyo.
A dedicated educator, Gonzalez mentored many students and played an active role in the New Orleans art scene, even transforming the canteen wall at Newcomb College into a space for his art students. His contributions to the art community were acknowledged in 1953 when he was elected as an Associate member of the National Academy of Design, becoming a full Academician by 1955.
In addition to his visual art, Gonzalez illustrated the 1966 children's book He Who Saw Everything: The Epic of Gilgamesh by Anita Feagles, showcasing his versatility and storytelling ability. He remained active in his art until his passing in 1993 from leukemia, at the age of 94, in New York City.
Gonzalez's career reflects a dedication to cultural exchange, teaching, and the creation of lasting works that bridge the gap between art and life, leaving an indelible mark on the American and international art scenes.