DE KOONING, ELAINE

ne Elaine Marie Catherine Fried born March 12, 1920, New York, N.Y., U.S. died Feb. 1, 1989, Southampton, Long Island, N.Y. American painter, teacher, and art critic who is perhaps best known for her portraits. Attending art school in New York City, she was introduced to artist Willem de Kooning in 1938. They were married in 1943. Her work as an art critic began as a means to earn money, but she was a witty and insightful observer and continued to write throughout her life. She also held teaching positions at a number of colleges and universities throughout the country. Her first solo exhibit occurred in 1952 at Stable Gallery in New York City. Taking aspects of Action painting and Abstract Expressionism, she examined many themes, especially those of landscape and the male figure. Her portraits include two of President John F. Kennedy.