John Ruskin

John Ruskin (1819-1900) was a prominent English art critic, social thinker, and philanthropist, known for his influential writings on art and architecture. He became a leading figure in the Victorian era, advocating for social reform and the importance of art in society. Ruskin's works, such as 'Modern Painters' and 'The Stones of Venice,' emphasized the moral and spiritual significance of artistic expression. He founded Ruskin College in Oxford to promote education for working-class individuals. His complex relationship with his 'muse,' Rose La Touche, and his struggles with mental health later in life contributed to his legacy as both a visionary and a tragic figure in art history.