Kaprow, Allan

Kaprow, Allan

(1927–  ) painter, theorist, performance artist; born in Atlantic City, N.J. Based in New York City, he studied at the Hans Hofmann School, N.Y.C. (1947–48), with John Cage (1956–58), and at Columbia University. He is known for his assemblage and collage constructions, but is most famous for inventing "happenings," unconventional theatrical events utilizing audience participation, as in 18 Happenings in 6 Parts (1959).

The Cambridge Dictionary of American Biography, by John S. Bowman. Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1995. Reproduced with permission.