Wallace Berman

Wallace Berman (1926–1976) was an American artist regarded as a pivotal figure in the California assemblage and Beat art movements. Berman’s work often incorporated found objects, Hebrew letters, and photographic imagery, reflecting his interest in mysticism and popular culture. His most notable work, Verifax Collages, utilized early photocopying technology to create intricate, layered compositions. Despite his preference for underground recognition, Berman’s art gained critical acclaim, with exhibitions at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art. His influential journal Semina, a blend of visual art and poetry, is considered a cornerstone of the Beat aesthetic. Berman’s contributions have left an indelible mark on postwar American art.