Mother and Daughter Sculpture

Chaim Gross Lakewood NJ, a pioneering figure in American sculpture, left an enduring legacy that resonates far beyond his time. Born in 1902 in Wolowa, a village in the Carpathian Mountains, Gross’s early life was marked by historical upheaval, including the impact of World War I and displacement from Austria-Hungary. His journey eventually led him to New York City in 1921, where he studied under prominent sculptors at the Educational Alliance Art School and the Beaux-Arts Institute of Design. Gross’s talent quickly blossomed, and he began showcasing his unique sculptures across the city, earning recognition for his emotive wood, stone, and later bronze works. During the 1930s, Gross contributed to major public art projects, including the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and the Public Works of Art Project, creating sculptures that captured the beauty of everyday life with a sense of dignity. These works laid the foundation for his reputation as an influential artist, with exhibitions at institutions like the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Jewish Museum in New York City. In his later years, Gross's artistic influence extended to Lakewood, NJ, where his legacy has continued to inspire local art communities. Lakewood remains connected to his work through educational programs and exhibits that celebrate his life and contributions to American art. Chaim Gross passed away in 1991, but his legacy lives on, particularly in the Lakewood area, where his dedication to capturing the essence of human spirit through sculpture continues to resonate with new generations of artists and admirers.