A prominent art critic and journalist, known for promoting the works of the Group of Seven and other Canadian artists, playing a significant role in shaping the country's art scene.
Robbie Ross, a British journalist, art critic, and art dealer, is best known for his intimate relationship with the renowned Irish author Oscar Wilde, to whom he was a devoted friend, lover, and literary executor. Ross played a pivotal role in Wilde's life, providing emotional support during his trials and imprisonment, and ensuring the publication of his works after his death.
Ross was born on May 25, 1869, in Tours, France, to John Ross and Augusta Elizabeth Baldwin. His family was steeped in Canadian politics, with his grandfather, Robert Baldwin, being a prominent reform leader. Ross's father, John, was a successful lawyer and politician who served as Solicitor General for Upper Canada, among other positions. Ross was the youngest of five children, with two sisters, Mary and Maria, and two brothers, John and Alexander.
Ross attended King's College, Cambridge, in 1888, where he was a victim of bullying, likely due to his sexuality. Despite this, he developed a passion for literature and art, which would become a defining aspect of his career. After completing his education, Ross moved to London, where he began working as a journalist and art critic.
Ross's relationship with Oscar Wilde began in the early 1890s, and the two men became inseparable. Ross was devoted to Wilde, providing emotional support and encouragement throughout his life. When Wilde was imprisoned for gross indecency in 1895, Ross was a constant visitor, bringing him books and supplies. After Wilde's release, Ross continued to support him, helping him to settle in France and promoting his work.
After Wilde's death in 1900, Ross became his literary executor, working tirelessly to promote his work and ensure its publication. Ross was instrumental in publishing Wilde's plays, poetry, and letters, including his famous novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray. He also fought to clear Wilde's name, challenging the hostile press and societal norms that had contributed to his friend's downfall.
Ross's open homosexuality, in a period when male homosexual acts were illegal, brought him many hardships. He faced bullying, ostracism, and even arrest, but remained defiant and unapologetic about his sexuality. Despite these challenges, Ross continued to live his life authentically, inspiring others to do the same.
Ross's devotion to Wilde and his work has had a lasting impact on literature and the arts. He mentored several literary figures, including Siegfried Sassoon, and played a significant role in shaping the London literary and artistic scene in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Ross's courage and conviction in the face of adversity have made him a pioneering figure in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
Ross died on October 5, 1918, at the age of 49, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and empower generations of artists, writers, and activists.
Born in 1854
A witty and flamboyant literary mastermind, renowned for crafting clever, humorous, and poignant works that continue to delight audiences with their clever wordplay and societal commentary.
Born in 1839
A renowned Victorian-era art and literary critic, known for his influential writings on aesthetics and the importance of individualism in art. His works continue to shape art historical discourse.
Born in 1848
A French author and critic who wrote novels that explored the decadent and Symbolist movements, influencing the development of modernist literature.
Born in 1872
A provocative and influential artist of the Art Nouveau era, creating decadent and erotic illustrations that pushed boundaries of Victorian morality. Known for his iconic black-and-white drawings and his association with Oscar Wilde's Salome.
Born in 1828
A Victorian-era poet and painter who founded the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, creating dreamlike, sensual works that explored themes of love, beauty, and mortality.
Born in 1830
A renowned Victorian-era poet and author, celebrated for her lyrical and symbolic poetry, particularly "The Goblin Market and Other Poems" and "The Prince's Progress".
Born in 1837
A prominent Victorian-era writer, known for his poetic works that explored themes of beauty, death, and the human condition, with a distinctive style that blended sensuality and symbolism.
